European Union warns Meta of interim WhatsApp ban over AI policies

European authorities are moving to restrict the use of WhatsApp for official communications as Meta Platforms faces a potential interim ban over policies allegedly stifling rival artificial intelligence firms.

The European Commission issued a supplementary statement of objections on Wednesday, indicating an intent to impose measures to prevent "serious and irreparable harm" to the market.

While encryption remains robust, officials argue that consumer apps are not designed for large-scale government operations.

Nations including Germany, France, and Belgium have begun deploying domestic systems to ensure stricter access control.

Concerns regarding foreign interference and the security of sensitive political data have accelerated this transition.

The issue remains focused on governance rather than technical security. One official noted that the shift is "less about encryption strength and more about governance, control and data visibility."

Despite the popularity of consumer tools, "governments increasingly want communication systems tailored to institutional needs rather than consumer use."

Notably, Belgium has recently introduced its own system, BEAM. Prime Minister Bart De Wever and other senior officials have been instructed to use the government-developed platform for internal business to mitigate the risk of phishing and hacking.

This move signals a broader push for "digital sovereignty" as the bloc seeks to reduce reliance on United States-based technology providers.

The European Commission is expected to launch its own internal messaging system by the end of the year.

This follows a surge in demand for secure tools after several high-profile leaks. Looking ahead, the transition marks a definitive step in Europe’s strategy to control its critical digital infrastructure and internal political discourse.