WhatsApp, the popular instant messaging platform, has taken stringent actions by banning more than 74 lakh accounts in India in August. This number represents an increase of approximately 2 lakh accounts compared to the preceding month. The account bans are in line with India’s new IT Rules introduced in 2021, and they encompass both proactive measures and those taken based on user reports.
In its latest India Monthly Report for October, WhatsApp disclosed that out of the banned accounts, 3,506,905 were proactively barred even before receiving any reports from users. This proactive approach demonstrates the platform’s commitment to adhering to the regulations set forth in the IT Rules.
September also witnessed a significant number of account bans, with Meta-owned WhatsApp taking action against 72.28 lakh accounts in India. This included 3.1 lakh accounts that were proactively barred.
WhatsApp emphasized its dedication to user safety, stating, “We are an industry leader among end-to-end encrypted messaging services in preventing and combating abuse. In addition to our safety features and controls, we employ a team of engineers, data scientists, analysts, researchers, and experts in law enforcement, online safety, and technology developments to oversee these efforts.”
The report defines “Accounts Actioned” as actions taken by the company in response to user reports. These actions can involve banning an account or restoring a previously banned account following a complaint.
The government has introduced the Grievance Appellate Committee (GAC) mechanism, allowing users to appeal decisions made by social media platforms. Users can file complaints on a dedicated portal, making the GAC a vital online dispute resolution platform for those dissatisfied with intermediary decisions.
Meanwhile, WhatsApp is undergoing changes to its chat interface on the Android version of its application. The modifications include adjustments to the app’s color scheme, impacting its appearance, particularly in dark mode.
As WhatsApp continues to adapt to regulatory requirements and enhance user safety, its actions against accounts that violate rules and policies demonstrate the platform’s commitment to maintaining a secure and responsible online environment.
Sources By Agencies