WhatsApp users will not be able to use the app from May 15 after the messaging platform said it will disable chats for anybody not accepting new terms and conditions.
After 15 May 2021, users will not be able to read or send messages if they do not accept the new policy.
The app will display a banner alert in the coming weeks, which will prompt users to sign up before 15 May.
However, calls and notifications are expected to remain in place for a "short time" after this date.
Although accounts will not be deleted, WhatsApp has warned customers that inactive accounts are generally deleted within 120 days.
What changes are being made?
The new WhatsApp terms and conditions are in response to a new feature being implemented on the app, which allows purchases and interaction with businesses.
An announcement about the update was made earlier this year, but there was a backlash from some users who thought it meant WhatsApp would be sharing more data with its parent company, Facebook.
However, WhatsApp then clarified that this was not the case and that the update is in order to enable payments to be made.
The messaging service said it has set the date for May as it allows users time to review the changes.
However, there will be a chance to agree to the new conditions after the deadline has passed and have full functionality restored.
WhatsApp said: “To give you enough time to review changes at your own pace and convenience, we’ve extended the effective date to May 15th.
“If you haven’t accepted by then, WhatsApp will not delete your account.”
However, accounts will be listed as ‘inactive’, which means they could be deleted after 120 days.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article