Scottish government ministers and staff are to be banned from using informal mobile messaging apps - including WhatsApp - on official devices. Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes announced the move on Tuesday following the publication of an external review ordered by former first minister Humza Yousaf.
It came after the UK COVID inquiry revealed ministers and top civil servants had deleted WhatsApp messages exchanged during the pandemic. Any "non-corporate" messaging technology will be removed from Scottish government devices in spring 2025, with updated guidance and training in the run-up.
The deputy first minister said: "The use of mobile messaging apps increased during the pandemic as staff worked remotely in unprecedented and difficult circumstances. "Having reflected on our working practices, we are now implementing changes to the use of mobile messaging apps.".
The review was led by former Channel Islands data protection commissioner Emma Martins. Ms Forbes added: "Ms Martins' timely review sets out some of the most challenging issues facing all governments. "Work has already started to implement recommendations, and we will build on that work to ensure that data management, especially in relation to new technologies, is as robust as possible in order to continue to deliver efficient and effective public services.".
