The Indian Government recently issued a notice to Meta’s messaging platform WhatsApp regarding a surge in international scam calls. In response, WhatsApp assured its users that it prioritizes their safety and privacy. The messaging platform offers features like ‘Block’ and ‘Report’ to prevent unwanted calls or messages. Additionally, WhatsApp claims to have improved its AI and ML system, which is expected to reduce the current calling rate by 50 percent or more.
A WhatsApp spokesperson stated that the platform is committed to keeping its users safe and is fully aligned with the government’s goal. They added that WhatsApp is a leader in end-to-end encrypted services that protect user safety. The spokesperson further stated that the messaging platform has quickly upgraded its AI and ML systems to address this issue. The new enforcement is expected to significantly reduce the current calling rate and control the problem effectively.
Earlier, the IT Ministry’s Minister of State for IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar announced that they will send a notice to WhatsApp regarding the issue of spam calls from unknown international numbers to ensure the privacy of users on digital platforms. The Minister added that digital platforms are responsible for ensuring the safety of ‘digital nagriks.’ Any alleged misuse or breach of users’ privacy on such platforms will receive an appropriate response from the government.
WhatsApp users in India have recently reported receiving incoming international spam calls with country codes from Indonesia (+62), Vietnam (+84), Malaysia (+60), Kenya (+254), and Ethiopia (+251). Users took to Twitter to raise their concerns about the spam calls. However, with WhatsApp’s assurance of improved safety and privacy features, users can be confident that they can continue using the messaging platform without any worries about unwanted calls or messages.
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