WeChat adds list of data it collects as Tencent aims to comply with China’s strict new regulations

The latest version of the messaging app includes a list in the settings detailing what data has been collected, including contacts and location

The feature is meant to comply with China’s strict new data requirements under the Personal Information Protection Law and other regulations enacted last year

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The WeChat app displayed on a smartphone on July 10, 2020. Photo: Shutterstock

Published: 5:00pm, 10 Jan 2022Updated: 6:16pm, 10 Jan 2022

WeChat, the ubiquitous messaging super app operated by Tencent Holdings, is rolling out an update that includes a detailed list of the personal information that it collects, the latest move from the company to comply with strict new laws and regulations in China governing user data.

The list can be found in the settings of the latest version of the app, which is currently still in beta testing on Android devices. It includes basic user information, devices associated with the account, contacts and data generated within the app, according to a report by Chinese technology news site IThome on Saturday. A list of which data has been shared with third parties is also available.

Tencent confirmed that the new version of WeChat is in beta testing but did not elaborate on the list feature.

The addition of the list is meant to comply with the country’s Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL), which went into effect in November, along with other regulatory requirements, according to a person with knowledge of the matter, who asked not to be named.

The PIPL is one of several measures taken last year tightening rules on the handling of user data. It is regarded as one of the world’s toughest laws governing the collection and use of personal data, with a far-reaching impact that is often compared to the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation.

The law states that companies need user consent to collect sensitive personal data on things like biometrics, medical health, financial accounts, and location. Platforms found to be illegally collecting personal information face suspension or termination of services.

Over the past several months, China’s new data rules have forced Tencent to make several changes to WeChat, the most-used mobile app in the country with more than 1.26 billion monthly active users worldwide.