WhatsApp is using Status Messages - its version of Stories - to reassure users about their privacy.

Facebook-owned messaging app is still struggling with perceptions about upcoming changes to its privacy policy.

"There has been a lot of misinformation and confusion about our latest update and we want to help everyone understand how WhatsApp protects people's privacy and security," a platform spokesperson said in an email to The Verge.

"That's why we as users are posting to let them know about anything."

In recent "posts", WhatsApp writes:

"One not new thing in our update is our commitment to your privacy."

Another "Story" says:

"WhatsApp can not read or listen to your personal conversations as they are encrypted."

These communications are part of a larger effort by WhatsApp to clear up misunderstandings regarding a future update of its privacy policy. The update is intended to explain how businesses that use WhatsApp for customer service can store their chat logs on Facebook servers.

"The update does not change WhatsApp data sharing practices with Facebook and does not affect the way people communicate privately with friends or family anywhere in the world. WhatsApp remains deeply committed to protecting people's privacy," said a spokesman for company.

Amid subsequent confusion, rival messaging apps Signal and Telegram have both recently seen an increase in new users.