Centre bans 14 mobile messaging apps allegedly used by terrorists in J&K

New Delhi (India), May 1, 2023: The Indian government has imposed a ban on 14 mobile messaging applications, citing their alleged use by terrorist groups operating mainly in the Jammu and Kashmir region. According to sources, these apps were being employed by these groups to communicate with their supporters and over-ground workers, as well as to receive instructions from Pakistan.

The banned apps include Crypviser, Enigma, Safeswiss, Wickrme, Mediafire, Briar, BChat, Nandbox, Conion, IMO, Element, Second Line, Zangi, and Threema.

The security and intelligence agencies recommended the action, and a list of apps that pose a threat to national security and do not follow Indian laws was prepared. The concerned ministry was subsequently informed of the request to ban these apps, which were then blocked under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

According to official communications to higher-ups, intelligence agencies have reported that these apps are being used to spread terror propaganda in the Kashmir Valley. ANI reported that while tracking one of the communication channels, the agencies found that the mobile application did not have representatives in India, making it difficult to track the activities happening on the app.

This move by the Indian government highlights the continued efforts to curb the activities of terrorist groups in the region and maintain national security.