In a September 2024 study, Vodafone found that 47 per cent of UK-based small- to medium-sized businesses (SMEs) use WhatsApp as their primary business communication platform. While its convenience is undeniable, the platform’s use poses significant data privacy and security risks. Here, Kristian Torode, Director and Co-Founder of business communication specialist Crystaline, explains why unified communications (UC) offers a more secure solution.
WhatsApp was launched in 2009 as a simple messaging app, but its user-friendly interface, ad-free design and cost-free messaging over the internet quickly caused it to gain popularity. In 2025, it is estimated that WhatsApp will reach 3 billion monthly active users worldwide.
For SMEs, WhatsApp’s simplicity is one of its biggest selling points. It doesn’t require training or significant investment, making it an attractive choice for smaller teams, and features like group chats, voice calls and file sharing allow businesses to collaborate with ease. However, using WhatsApp as a primary business communication platform can expose businesses to significant data privacy, security and compliance risks.
The risks of relying on WhatsApp
In 2018, WhatsApp Business was introduced to enhance its suitability for professional use, offering features such as business profiles, quick replies and automated messaging. While these updates provide basic tools for customer engagement, they fail to address the concerns of data security and compliance.
WhatsApp does include end-to-end encryption, which protects messages from being intercepted during transmission. However, several vulnerabilities remain. For instance, backups stored on cloud services may not be encrypted, exposing them to potential breaches. Also, as part of the Meta ecosystem, WhatsApp is susceptible to third-party risks, and phishing and social engineering attacks can target its user accounts.
Furthermore, there is the issue of compliance. WhatsApp is not designed to meet data protection regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). It lacks critical controls for secure data storage, consent management and preventing unauthorised data transfers outside the EU, placing businesses at risk of fines and reputational damage. In 2023, the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) reported a data breach can cost a business an average of £3 million — detrimental to an SME.
A secure and structured alternative
UC platforms provide a comprehensive solution by integrating multiple communication tools — voice, video, instant messaging and file sharing — into a single, streamlined system.
These platforms offer the same core functionalities as WhatsApp and end-to-end encryption but address its limitations with enhanced security features such as secure data sharing, centralised management, real-time monitoring, built-in archiving, auditing and consent management features.
These additional features allow businesses to respond swiftly to potential threats, reducing the risk of unauthorised access or breaches and making it easier to comply with GDPR and other sector-specific data protection regulations.
One example of a UC platform is Vodafone Business UC with RingCentral. This solution combines Vodafone’s global connectivity with RingCentral’s advanced cloud communications technology, offering businesses a secure and scalable alternative to WhatsApp.
Vodafone Business UC prioritises data protection with enterprise-grade security features and full compliance with international regulations like GDPR. Its integration capabilities with tools like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace enable seamless collaboration while maintaining control over sensitive information.
Unlike WhatsApp, this platform is also purpose-built for professional use. It provides analytics tools, AI-powered meeting features and a unified interface for managing voice, video, messaging and file sharing. This makes it easier for businesses to streamline workflows, ensure compliance and foster productivity while maintaining robust security.
While WhatsApp may seem convenient for SMEs, its security, organisation and compliance limitations make it a risky option for business communication. Platforms such as Vodafone Business UC with RingCentral offer a more secure and professional alternative. By investing in the right tools, businesses can protect their data, ensure compliance and create a more efficient communication environment.
Crystaline is a Vodafone Advanced Partner, offering expertise to SMEs looking to unlock the benefits of Business UC with a RingCentral Solution. To find out more, contact a member of the team today.