CITC: WhatsApp started, blocked call service

JEDDAH: The Communication and Information Technology Commission (CITC) on Tuesday said it is not against communication services and applications in the Kingdom, but telecom companies will have to respect the Kingdom’s rules and regulations. The telecom regulator’s clarification came following a temporary resumption of the voice call facility on WhatsApp on Saturday. The service was, however, blocked the following day. “WhatsApp calls service can be activated by the company. However, this service does not work in many countries, including some GCC states, for non-compliance of regulations of those countries,” the CITC said in a statement. WhatsApp had earlier said: “The WhatsApp Calls service is not available in all countries due to local laws and regulations. If you are in any of these countries, you will not be able to make or receive these calls...” Arab News