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MattSladeEn's avatar
MattSladeEn
Copper Contributor
Nov 01, 2023

Has anyone managed to manage the MS Store WhatsApp app and configure it?

I'm currently setting up our Intune management strategy and working through a list of apps our team previously used in an unmanaged fashion. One of these was WhatsApp and I have been searching for possible solutions for how we could still use the app on Windows Laptops and Mac OS devices. Only in a much more controlled and managed fashion, specifically we want to prevent the sending of data, files, or copied content via the app. 

 

There is plenty of content online about how to manage and configure WhatsApp for IOS and Android devices but I'm drawing almost nothing about implementing this for Windows Laptops or Mac OS app installs. 

Can this be achieved with a WhatsApp ADMX import? Not that I have found any.

Has anyone had any success in this area? 

  • sainlara's avatar
    sainlara
    Copper Contributor

    You can leverage Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions like Microsoft Intune or third-party MDM providers to control the installation and access of applications on Windows and Mac devices. By using an MDM, you can restrict the installation of WhatsApp or any other apps that are not approved for your organization.

    Implementing network-level controls can help manage and control WhatsApp usage. By configuring firewalls and proxies, you can restrict access to WhatsApp servers or block specific protocols that WhatsApp uses for file sharing and data transfer. This can prevent users from sending data, files, or copied content via the app.

    Some MDM solutions offer application whitelisting or blacklisting capabilities. You can define a whitelist of approved applications, and if WhatsApp is not included, it can be blocked or prevented from functioning on managed devices. This helps enforce the policy of not allowing WhatsApp on corporate devices. Alongside technical controls, it's essential to establish clear policies and educate your users about the acceptable use of applications on corporate devices. Communicate your organization's guidelines regarding the usage of WhatsApp and the prohibition of sending data, files, or copied content via the app. Regularly remind employees of these policies and provide training on secure communication practices.

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