Saudi WhatsApp ban should not lead to spying

Saudi Arabia’s recent announcement of its intention to ban smart phone messaging services such as WhatsApp has understandably caused concern, but it is important to understand the reasoning behind such a move. While Saudi Arabia has not revealed the reason for the possible ban, and is unlikely to, it is safe to assume that it is being considered due to security reasons rather than the maximization of profit for local telecom companies. Saudi authorities gave the messaging services an ultimatum to allow them to intercept communications before banning the services. The companies understandably refused, unwilling to set a precedent.

However, the difficult times we live in unfortunately require us to quietly accept such measures as a necessity. The security situation in the region dictates the policies that need to be implemented. But this security necessity certainly does not absolve the authorities from the need to respect the people’s privacy and practice the security measures with responsibility and due process. It is, therefore, incumbent on regional governments to set up a legal system that regulates the practice, and prevents arbitrary spying on citizens.