Over 99 lakh WhatsApp Accounts banned in India

 

 

 

WhatsApp, the Meta-owned messaging platform, has set a new record by banning over 99 lakh accounts in India between December 1 and 31. This is one of the largest crackdowns ever undertaken by the platform as part of its ongoing efforts to maintain user safety and curb the spread of spam, fake news, and abusive content.

The bans were imposed in response to violations of WhatsApp’s strict security and privacy policies, which prohibit activities such as:

• Spam messaging through bulk or automated messages.
• Spreading misinformation and fake news, a growing concern in India.
• Impersonation and fraudulent activities, including scams and phishing attempts.
• Use of modified versions of WhatsApp, which violate the platform’s policies.

The move aligns with India’s IT regulations, requiring digital platforms to take strict action against harmful content. Under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, WhatsApp and other social media platforms are required to take stringent action against accounts that spread harmful content or misuse the platform. As per the mandate, digital service providers must publish monthly compliance reports detailing the actions taken against violators.

WhatsApp’s latest report highlights that over 35 lakh accounts were proactively banned, meaning they were removed before any user complaints were received. The remaining accounts were taken down following reports from users and thorough internal investigations.

WhatsApp employs advanced AI-driven detection systems to identify suspicious behavior, including automated messaging, unusual activity patterns, and violations of terms of service. Additionally, users can report abusive accounts directly through the app, further strengthening the platform’s security.

With over 500 million users in India, WhatsApp remains the country’s most popular messaging app. By implementing strict security measures and adhering to IT regulations, the platform aims to create a safer digital space for users. The 99 lakh account ban demonstrates WhatsApp’s commitment to fighting misuse, misinformation, and harmful content, ensuring a secure and reliable communication platform for Indian users.