The Indian central government has banned at least 14 instant messaging apps, including Crypviser and Enigma, over national security concerns. According to sources, these apps were being used by terror groups, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, to communicate with each other. The ban was implemented under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, which allows the government to direct online intermediaries to block content or information that it considers a threat to national security.
The banned apps include Crypviser, a Germany-headquartered encrypted chat app, Enigma, developed by Incubeta UK, SafeSwiss, a Switzerland-based app, Wickr Me, owned by Amazon Web Services, MediaFire, a US-based app, Briar, an open-source messaging app, and nandbox, a Canada-based app.
The ban is not an isolated incident, as the Indian government has previously banned mobile applications over national security concerns. In the past, the government has banned over 200 apps, including popular Chinese apps such as TikTok, SHAREit, Mi Video Call, Club Factory, and Cam Scanner. In February 2023, the government blocked 138 betting and 94 loan apps.
Sources in the central government have stated that banning these apps is a routine affair as they keep identifying apps being misused during their security reviews. The government aims to cut communication between terrorists and their handlers by banning these apps.
However, the ban of these apps raises concerns about the restriction of freedom of speech and expression, as well as the right to privacy. Encryption is a necessary feature for messaging apps to protect user privacy, and the government’s ban on encrypted apps like Crypviser and SafeSwiss may raise questions about the government’s intentions.
Moreover, the government’s actions may not necessarily deter terror groups from communicating with each other. These groups may simply switch to using other messaging apps, which may not have been identified by intelligence agencies.
While the Indian government’s efforts to ensure national security are commendable, the banning of messaging apps raises concerns about freedom of speech, expression, and privacy. The government should ensure that such bans do not impinge upon the rights of citizens, while also taking measures to effectively combat terror groups.
