  In this dataset paper we describe our work on the collection and analysis of
public WhatsApp group data. Our primary goal is to explore the feasibility of
collecting and using WhatsApp data for social science research. We therefore
present a generalisable data collection methodology, and a publicly available
dataset for use by other researchers. To provide context, we perform
statistical exploration to allow researchers to understand what public WhatsApp
group data can be collected and how this data can be used. Given the widespread
use of WhatsApp, our techniques to obtain public data and potential
applications are important for the community.
