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Re:WhatsApp Blocking Encrypted Calls to All Saudi Numbers by subliminalpanda on Wednesday July 13, 2016 @06:16PM (#12090106)
The telco doesn't have much of a choice, as the rules are administered by the TRA (telecommunications regulatory authority), and by proxy, state security.

No one that worked there wanted to do it, but refusing to do so would be reason to have them dismissed from their jobs.

Many employees are expats; leaving their jobs would mean a loss of their residence and thus deportation.

Such is life in a police state.

Re:WhatsApp Blocking Encrypted Calls to All Saudi Numbers by pmarreck on Wednesday July 13, 2016 @06:17PM (#12090117)
I correct myself, then: Your police state sucks.

> but refusing to do so would be reason to have them dismissed from their jobs.

I've quit jobs on principle before. The key is to have a nest egg.

> Many employees are expats; leaving their jobs would mean a loss of their residence and thus deportation.

Could they find another job?

Re:WhatsApp Blocking Encrypted Calls to All Saudi Numbers by subliminalpanda on Wednesday July 13, 2016 @06:31PM (#12090203)
> I correct myself, then: Your police state sucks.

Police states are very shitty indeed.

> I've quit jobs on principle before. The key is to have a nest egg.

A lot of the expats come from Lebanon, Syria, Pakistan, India, and occasionally Eastern Europe. Almost all of them that I know have families they need to support (immediate and sending remittances), and the money is a lifeline. Being deported back and/or being blacklisted from the GCC is a life-ruining scenario. Getting visas to the west is not always an option.

>Could they find another job?

It's possible, but all countries in the GCC operate under a Kafala (sponsorship) system. Having it revoked in one GCC member state raises complications in others.

For those wondering, GCC = Gulf Cooperation Council, not the compiler.

(edit for clarity)

Re:WhatsApp Blocking Encrypted Calls to All Saudi Numbers by tedunangst on Wednesday July 13, 2016 @07:10PM (#12090456)
Even better solution: All the WhatsApp users in Saudi Arabia should move to another country.