Boosting Security: WhatsApp Set to Deregister Mobile Numbers Linked to Fraud

Telecom minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Tuesday that WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, has agreed to deregister mobile numbers found to be involved in fraudulent activities and already disconnected from mobile services.

He confirmed that WhatsApp has acknowledged the importance of customer safety and has agreed to deregister users identified as fraudulent. This response comes as the government takes action against scammers using international numbers on WhatsApp to deceive unsuspecting consumers.

Additionally, Vaishnaw mentioned that the government has been in discussions with Telegram and other messaging platforms to address the removal of fraudulent users.

In response to the minister’s statement, WhatsApp stated that it is actively collaborating with the government to find a solution to the problem.

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WhatsApp responded to the government’s efforts by stating that they have been actively collaborating to ensure a safe and secure user experience. They emphasized their commitment to removing bad actors from the platform and highlighted their role as a leader in providing end-to-end encryption and user safety tools such as Block & Report and Two-step verification. Furthermore, WhatsApp mentioned their continuous efforts in promoting user safety education and awareness.

During the launch of a customer-centric sectoral reform initiative, Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted one of the key reforms where customers will have the ability to access information regarding the number of connections associated with their identity.

To address situations where individuals lose or have their phones stolen, customers will have the option to block and track their devices using a web portal called Sanchar Saathi, which operates under the Department of Telecommunications. This service is supported by the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR).

To combat fraudulent subscribers, the government has introduced ASTR (Artificial Intelligence and Facial Recognition) as a solution for verifying telecom SIM subscribers.

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When a mobile phone is stolen, it can be exploited for activities like identity theft, forged know your customer (KYC), and banking fraud. In order to prevent such fraudulent activities, the minister stated that the development of this web portal has taken place.

The minister emphasized that the implemented solutions adhere to the privacy guidelines established by Supreme Court judgments and will align with provisions set forth in forthcoming privacy laws. The country is actively working on enacting a digital personal data protection law.

Furthermore, he stated that the three reforms have established a comprehensive legal and regulatory process through which lost or stolen mobile phones can be disabled effectively. The minister discussed the new telecom bill, which is still being drafted and is expected to be finalized by July. The bill aims to protect consumers and prioritize user safety. The Sanchar Saathi portal has played a significant role in identifying and disconnecting over 4 million fraudulent connections. The minister also mentioned that the reforms implemented will be reviewed within six months to a year.