In response to the Indian government’s notice to send a notice to Meta’s messaging platform regarding an increase in international scam calls, WhatsApp has promised to safeguard users’ privacy and security. A WhatsApp spokesperson stated that the company provides options like ‘Block’ and ‘Report’ for users to avoid unwanted calls or messages. Additionally, the company has ramped up its AI and ML systems, which are expected to bring down the current calling rate by at least 50 percent.
Minister of State for IT’s Notice
Earlier in the day, the Minister of State for IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, announced that the IT Ministry will send a notice to WhatsApp regarding the issue of spam calls from unknown international numbers. The aim of the notice is to ensure the privacy of users on digital platforms. Chandrasekhar added that all digital platforms are responsible and accountable for ensuring the safety of ‘digital nagriks’. Any alleged misuse or breach of users’ privacy on any such platform will receive an appropriate response from the government.
The incidence has come to light as WhatsApp users in India have reported receiving incoming international spam calls over the past few days. Users have taken to Twitter to complain that these spam calls had country codes belonging to Indonesia (+62), Vietnam (+84), Malaysia (+60), Kenya (+254), and Ethiopia (+251).
WhatsApp has stated that its users are at the heart of everything the company does and that it is fully aligned with the government’s goal of keeping users safe. The company’s spokesperson has emphasized that WhatsApp is a leader among end-to-end encrypted services in protecting user safety. The company has quickly ramped up its AI and ML systems to bring down such incidents significantly. The new enforcement is expected to reduce the current calling rate by at least 50 percent, and the company expects to be able to control the current incidence effectively.
In conclusion, WhatsApp has responded to the Indian government’s notice by promising to continue to prioritize user safety and privacy. With the increased use of digital platforms, it is crucial that companies take steps to ensure the safety of their users, and the Indian government is taking steps to hold them accountable.
Leave a Reply