The central government has restricted 14 messenger mobile applications that were mostly used in Jammu and Kashmir for promoting terror, according to sources, after receiving input from intelligence services. Sources claim that militants in Kashmir utilize these mobile applications to interact with their backers and local workers.
“Agencies keep track of channels used by Overground workers (OGWs) and terrorists to communicate among themselves. While tracking down one of the communication, agencies found that the mobile application does not have representatives in India and it is difficult to track down activities happening on the app,” said an official.
Thereafter, with the help of other intelligence agencies operating in the valley, a list of such apps was prepared that pose a threat to national security and do not follow Indian laws. After getting the list prepared, the concerned Ministry was informed of the request to ban these mobile applications. These apps have been blocked under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, the official added.
In official communications to higher-ups, the intelligence agencies informed that these apps are spreading terror propaganda in the Valley.
Sources said these apps include Crypviser, Enigma, Safeswiss, Wickrme, Mediafire, Briar, BChat, Nandbox, Conion, IMO, Element, Second line, Zangi, Threema among others.
