Ex-WhatsApp Cybersecurity Executive Says Meta Endangered Billions of Users in New Suit

A shocking new lawsuit has been filed by Attaullah Baig, a former top cybersecurity executive at WhatsApp, alleging that parent company Meta systematically disregarded internal flaws in the app's digital defenses and exposed billions of its users to potential harm. The allegations come as a major blow to Meta, which is already facing intense scrutiny over its handling of user data.

Baig, who served as the head of security for WhatsApp from 2021 to 2025, claims that Meta failed to implement basic cybersecurity measures, including adequate data handling and breach detection capabilities. He alleges that the company allowed approximately 1,500 engineers to have unrestricted access to user data without proper oversight, potentially violating a US government order that imposed a $5bn penalty on the company in 2020.

The lawsuit also claims that Meta failed to remedy the hacking and takeover of more than 100,000 accounts each day, ignoring Baig's pleas for help and proposed fixes. Instead, the company chose to prioritize user growth over security, putting billions of users at risk of being exposed to malicious activity.

Baig's allegations are particularly striking given his extensive experience in cybersecurity. As head of security for WhatsApp, he was responsible for ensuring the app's digital defenses were robust and up-to-date. His claims suggest that Meta failed to meet even basic standards of cybersecurity, leaving users vulnerable to exploitation.

The lawsuit has sent shockwaves through the tech industry, with many calling on Meta to take immediate action to address these concerns. As one expert noted, "This is a wake-up call for Meta and other major tech companies. They need to prioritize security and protect their users' data above all else."

Baig's decision to file a lawsuit is also seen as a warning to Meta that he will not be silenced. Despite his concerns being ignored by the company, Baig has chosen to speak out and hold Meta accountable for its actions.

The case is set to go to trial in US federal court in San Francisco, with the outcome still uncertain. However, one thing is clear: Attaullah Baig's lawsuit has highlighted a major failing of Meta's security measures and will undoubtedly have significant implications for the company's future.