Given the rapidly increasing cyber fraud in the country, the government wants access to the data of accounts banned by WhatsApp. The objective is to prevent scammers from simply switching apps and continuing their fraudulent activities.
Government Seeks Data of Banned WhatsApp Accounts
New Delhi: Cyber fraud cases are continuously rising in the country, with fraudsters employing new methods to target people. Amidst this, crucial discussions are underway between WhatsApp and the government regarding the data of banned accounts. The government wants this information about blacklisted numbers to be shared so that stricter action can be taken against those involved in fraudulent activities.
In its monthly compliance report, WhatsApp states that it bans millions of accounts every month. If a complaint is received about an account involved in scams, fraud, or suspicious activity, an investigation is conducted, and if evidence is found, the account is immediately banned. The company claims this step is taken to protect its users.
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The Indian government believes that simply banning accounts on WhatsApp is not enough. The government wants the mobile numbers banned on WhatsApp to be blocked on other digital platforms as well. This would prevent scammers from simply shifting to Telegram or other apps and continuing their fraudulent activities.
According to reports, many numbers banned on WhatsApp become active on messaging apps like Telegram, and the fraudulent activities continue from there. The government is concerned that while WhatsApp reports the number of accounts banned, it doesn't clarify the reasons or the process under which these accounts were banned.
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Scammers use apps like WhatsApp and Telegram because once an account is created with a number, it can be used even without a physical SIM card. This makes it difficult for investigative agencies to determine when the SIM was issued, who it belongs to, and whether the information is accurate.
While the government's intention is to prevent cybercrime, data sharing raises privacy concerns. It will be crucial to see what kind of agreement is reached between the government and WhatsApp in the future, one that ensures both user security and protects their privacy.
