WhatsApp Messaging Policy
Effective: 15 February 2026
1. Purpose & Scope
This WhatsApp Messaging Policy governs the use of the WhatsApp Business Platform through SocialMetis. It applies to all businesses that connect their official WhatsApp Business Account (WABA) using Meta's WhatsApp Cloud API via SocialMetis.
SocialMetis is operated by ASH&AD MEDIA METIS (OPC) PVT LTD and acts strictly as a Data Processor. Businesses using the platform act as independent Data Controllers with respect to their customer data.
2. Nature of Services
SocialMetis enables businesses to:
- Respond to inbound customer inquiries
- Send transactional updates
- Send appointment confirmations and reminders
- Schedule follow-up communications
- Create and manage WhatsApp message templates (subject to Meta approval)
- Configure automated responses within permitted WhatsApp policies
SocialMetis does not independently initiate conversations with end customers. All communications are initiated by business users through their connected WhatsApp Business Account.
3. Lawful Basis & Consent Requirements
Businesses are solely responsible for ensuring a valid lawful basis for processing personal data and sending messages, including but not limited to:
- Explicit consent (where required under GDPR, DPDP, UAE PDPL, or KSA PDPL)
- Contractual necessity
- Legitimate interest where legally permitted
Messaging must only be directed toward individuals who have voluntarily submitted their contact details through lawful opt-in channels, including:
- Website or landing page forms
- Lead advertisements
- Inquiry submissions
- Appointment booking systems
- Direct customer-initiated communication
Use of purchased lists, scraped data, unsolicited outreach, or cold messaging is strictly prohibited.
4. Automated Messaging
Businesses may configure automated workflows, including:
- Lead acknowledgments
- Appointment confirmations
- Reminder notifications
- Customer service responses
Such automation does not constitute automated decision-making that produces legal or similarly significant effects.
5. Broadcast & Template Messaging
Bulk or broadcast messaging is permitted exclusively through Meta-approved WhatsApp message templates.
All templates must:
- Be approved by Meta prior to use
- Conform to WhatsApp's category guidelines
- Be sent only to customers with valid consent
Businesses bear full responsibility for template content, regulatory compliance, and message quality ratings.
6. Data Processing & Retention
Messaging occurs through Meta's official WhatsApp Cloud API infrastructure.
- SocialMetis processes limited metadata required for routing and automation
- Message content is not permanently stored
- Temporary or in-memory processing may occur to facilitate delivery
SocialMetis does not sell, profile, or use customer communication data for advertising purposes.
7. International Data Transfers
SocialMetis infrastructure is hosted on Amazon Web Services (AWS) in Mumbai, India. Data transfers, where applicable, are conducted in accordance with applicable legal safeguards under GDPR, DPDP (India), UAE PDPL, and KSA PDPL.
8. Regulatory Compliance
Businesses using SocialMetis must comply with:
- WhatsApp Business Terms of Service
- WhatsApp Business Messaging Policy
- Meta Platform Terms
- General Data Protection Regulation (EU)
- India Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
- UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021
- Saudi Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL)
Violations may result in account suspension, access termination, or reporting to Meta.
9. Relationship to Privacy Policy
This policy supplements our Privacy Policy.