UK communications regulator Ofcom opened an investigation into Meta Platforms (META) Friday over concerns about compliance with WhatsApp data requests.
The probe creates fresh regulatory headwinds for the social media giant, which faces mounting scrutiny over data practices that could impact its messaging business revenue.
Key Takeaways
- Ofcom investigates Meta’s compliance with WhatsApp information requests
- Probe focuses on potentially incomplete or inaccurate data provision
- Investigation stems from business messaging market review concerns
Market Reaction & Context
Meta shares have faced regulatory pressure across multiple jurisdictions this year, with the company navigating data privacy investigations in Europe and antitrust scrutiny in the United States. The latest UK probe adds to a growing list of compliance challenges for the tech giant’s messaging platforms.
WhatsApp Business has become increasingly important to Meta’s revenue diversification strategy, particularly as the company seeks to monetize its messaging services through business communications and payments.
Investigation Details
Ofcom’s investigation examines whether Meta provided incomplete or inaccurate information in response to legally binding statutory notices issued during a business messaging market review 1. The regulator expressed concerns about the company’s compliance with information requests related to WhatsApp Business services 2.
The probe will specifically review whether Meta failed to comply with statutory requirements imposed by the formal notices 3. Such investigations can result in enforcement action and potential fines if violations are confirmed.
Regulatory Implications
The investigation reflects broader regulatory scrutiny of Meta’s data handling practices across its platforms. Ofcom has statutory powers to compel information from companies during market reviews, and non-compliance can trigger enforcement proceedings.
This adds to Meta’s regulatory challenges in the UK, where the company already faces oversight from multiple agencies including the Information Commissioner’s Office on data protection matters.
Business Impact Assessment
WhatsApp Business represents a key growth area for Meta as it seeks to expand beyond traditional advertising revenue streams. The platform enables businesses to communicate with customers and process payments, making regulatory compliance critical for operational continuity.
Any enforcement action could potentially impact Meta’s ability to fully develop its business messaging services in the UK market, though the investigation’s outcome remains uncertain.
Not investment advice. For informational purposes only.
References
1(January 23, 2026). “UK investigates Meta’s compliance with WhatsApp data requests”. Reuters. Retrieved January 23, 2026.
2(January 23, 2026). “Meta faces UK probe over WhatsApp’s compliance with Ofcom information requests”. MLex. Retrieved January 23, 2026.
3(January 23, 2026). “Ofcom investigates Meta over WhatsApp Business information requests”. Telecompaper. Retrieved January 23, 2026.
4(January 23, 2026). “UK’s Inquiry into Meta’s WhatsApp Data Compliance Issues”. Global Banking and Finance Review. Retrieved January 23, 2026.
5(January 23, 2026). “Ofcom UK Probe WhatsApp Over Inaccurate Information in Biz SMS Market Review”. ISPreview. Retrieved January 23, 2026.
6(January 23, 2026). “UK’s Ofcom: has today opened an investigation into Meta”. MarketScreener. Retrieved January 23, 2026.
7(January 23, 2026). “UK investigates Meta’s compliance with WhatsApp data requests”. TradingView. Retrieved January 23, 2026.