WhatsApp is extending the deadline by which users must either accept its updated terms and conditions or stop using the service.
The original cut-off date was this month, but users now have until May 15 to take action.
The firm was criticised for sending the notification, which seemed to suggest changes to the data it would share with its parent company Facebook.
It said there had been "confusion" about its message.
Since the announcement and notifications went out across its platform, millions have downloaded alternative encrypted messaging apps such as Signal and Telegram.
A WhatsApp spokesperson said: "As we’ve previously talked about, we’re updating our terms of service and privacy policy as we work to make WhatsApp a great way to get answers or help from a business.
"Privacy policy and terms updates are common in the industry and we’re providing users with ample notice to review the changes."
The move is to help WhatsApp integrate better with other services offered by Facebook.
“WhatsApp currently shares certain categories of information with Facebook Companies,” a statement read.
“The information we share with the other Facebook Companies. includes your account registration information (such as your phone number), transaction data, service-related information, information on how you interact with others (including businesses) when using our Services, mobile device information, your IP address, and may include other information identified in the Privacy Policy section entitled ‘Information We Collect’ or obtained upon notice to you or based on your consent.”
In a blogpost, WhatsApp said personal messages had always been encrypted and would remain private.
It added that its practice of sharing some user data with Facebook was not new, and was not going to be expanded.
"The update includes new options people will have to message a business on WhatsApp, and provides further transparency about how we collect and use data," it said.
In an earlier FAQ post, WhatsApp explained that the data that it already shares with other Facebook companies includes:
- phone number and other information provided on registration (such as name)
- information about your phone, including make, model, and mobile company
- your IP address, which indicates location of your internet connection
- any payments and financial transactions made over WhatsApp
However this does not apply in Europe and the UK, where different privacy laws exist.
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