The “WeChat Effect”: Understanding the Compliance Risks of Mobile Messaging and Social Media Apps

Instant messaging and social media apps such as WeChat, WhatsApp and QQ are having a profound impact on the way people communicate around the world. In Asia, where the adoption rate of such technologies has been nothing short of astounding, instant messages are already surpassing email as the primary mode of work communication. These mobile communication tools offer significant benefits, but they also open the door to serious compliance and regulatory risks, many of which have never been encountered previously.

During this session, we will:

• Discuss key compliance risks associated with instant message and social media apps, and assess what controls may be effective in reducing those risks
• Evaluate the pros and cons of allowing employees to use WeChat and similar apps in day-to-day communications
• Discuss the forensic difficulties in obtaining information transmitted via these apps
• Consider the regulatory and enforcement implications of using these apps and review recent guidance from regulators
• Examine how to harness instant messaging and other mobile technologies for enhanced compliance monitoring

First 15-20 minutes is for networking

Sandwiches and beverages included

Hosted by the Law Committee​