TL;DR ¶

1. Realize you’re the product being sold (e.g. ‘The Social Reckoning’ (imdb.com))
2. Install alternative app (e.g. Signal (signal.org) or Threema (threema.com))
3. Change profile picture and status message on WhatsApp (e.g. ‘I’m now on Signal’)
4. Start using Signal for friends already over, recreate groups where relevant
5. Leave (unnecessary) WhatsApp groups
6. Optional: tell everyone you’re leaving by date X, then close your WhatsApp account.

See also this unofficial Signal guide (aboutsignal.com).

My experience ¶

I quite 5 years ago, and while there’s sometimes minor annoyances, I don’t regret the change.

The good: No more data being used against you, less spam, you are the change

The bad: Some friendships might be strained if the other party does not want to install your alterntive app

The ugly: WhatsApp is so engrained, communicating with schools & sports groups is a bit more cumbersome (e.g. via e-mail or text message, or just visit people)

Sources ¶

More reading available here:

• I deleted WhatsApp for a year and here’s what I learned (theguardian.com)
• WhatsApp: How to leave messaging service without losing all of your data or upsetting your friends (co.uk)
• Why I Deleted WhatsApp and What I’ve Gained From Living Without It for 5 Years (bytevagabond.com)