The Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) is making continuous efforts to stop scams. In this sequence, the Ministry has asked Meta to take strict decisions on the scams happening on WhatsApp. This means that the government is worried about the scams happening on WhatsApp. The Indian Telecom Regulator has asked the company to take a decision on this promptly.MeitY secretary S Krishnan told ET, “We have taken up the matter of the scam with Meta.continuous work is being done for this. Scammers are finding new ways. People have also started getting worried about this.
meta bought WhatsApp in 2014
He says that many such cases have come to light when instant message and voice-over-IP service providers are being used by scammers. We also want to impose an immediate ban regarding the content. Mark Zuckerberg’s company Meta owns WhatsApp.It was bought by Meta in 2014 in a deal worth $19 billion. Krishnan says that we are continuously talking with Meta officials. we have also raised the issue further regarding the mobile app WhatsApp.
Government wants to stop digital fraud
Krishnan explains, ‘If any wrong content is shared than there is a process for that too. These companies should have a Grievance Officer who will look into this entire matter. those people can raise this issue in or outside the app.If this issue is not resolved then there should be a grievance committee for this. I4C, working under the Home ministry, had identified cases of digital fraud and banned 59,000 accounts.
The government is continuously taking decisions to stop scams. Warning is given to smartphone users by CERT-In. Some time ago, CERT had said that Android phone users should be alert and keeping in mind the security of the phone, they should update their smartphones immediately.
How can users effectively report scams they encounter on WhatsApp?
Interview: Tackling Scams on WhatsApp – Insights from MeitY and Meta
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Thank you for joining us today. Recent developments indicate that the Indian Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) is intensifying its efforts too combat scams on WhatsApp. Can you elaborate on the Ministry’s concerns and the actions being taken?
Expert (MeitY Official S.Krishnan): Absolutely. Our primary concern is the rise in scams orchestrated through instant messaging platforms like WhatsApp. with scammers constantly innovating their methods, we’ve noticed a worrying trend that is causing distress among users. We’ve engaged with meta to address these issues seriously.
Interviewer: The government has reportedly instructed Meta to take prompt action. What exactly dose this entail?
Expert: We’re advocating for stricter measures from Meta regarding fraudulent content. This involves improving their reporting mechanisms and making sure there is a robust process for handling grievances. We believe that having a dedicated Grievance Officer in place is crucial for resolving issues quickly. If matters go unresolved, a grievance committee should be established.
Interviewer: This is a meaningful step forward. What other initiatives are being taken to curb digital fraud?
Expert: One significant initiative is the identification and banning of fraudulent accounts.For example, the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has successfully banned around 59,000 accounts linked to digital scams. Additionally, we’re working closely with CERT-In to ensure that smartphone users are well-informed about security practices. Recent advisories recommend that Android users keep their devices updated to enhance security against scams.
Interviewer: Given that Meta acquired WhatsApp in 2014 for $19 billion, how important is it for them to address these concerns proactively?
expert: Vrey important. With such a significant investment, Meta has a responsibility to ensure that their platform is safe and secure for users.We expect them to prioritize user safety to maintain trust in their services. By cooperating with the Indian government, they can effectively tackle the issues of digital fraud that have become increasingly pervasive.
Interviewer: How can we,as users,protect ourselves against scams on platforms like WhatsApp?
Expert: Users should remain vigilant about the messages they receive—only engage with known contacts,and be wary of unsolicited requests for personal information or money. We also advise users to regularly update their apps and use security features provided by the app platforms, such as two-factor authentication. Moreover, if they encounter any suspicious content, they should utilize the reporting features available and alert their Grievance Officer within the app.
Interviewer: What does the future hold for WhatsApp in terms of security and user trust?
Expert: If Meta takes swift action to implement the necessary security measures, I believe user trust can be reinforced.Continual dialogue between the government and service providers will also be key in developing a safer digital ecosystem. Our ultimate goal is to protect Indian users from digital fraud and ensure that platforms like WhatsApp can be enjoyed without fear.
Interviewer: Thank you for your valuable insights today. Its clear that while challenges remain, there are significant efforts underway to enhance user safety on messaging platforms.
Expert: Thank you for having me.Together, we can promote a safer digital surroundings for everyone.