The Indian government, on Monday, has banned 14 messaging mobile applications, which were widely used in the Jammu and Kashmir valley, after receiving information from the intelligence agencies. Reportedly, the terror groups were using these apps to communicate with their respective supporters and on-ground workers (OGWs).These apps include Crypviser, Enigma, Safeswiss, Wickrme, Mediafire, Briar, BChat, Nandbox, Conion, IMO, Element, Second Line, Zangi, Threema among others, as per sources. One of the officials said agencies monitor the channels that terrorists and Overground Workers (OGWs) use to communicate with one another. Agencies found it difficult to trace down the communications as the mobile app had no agents in India when they tracked down one of the apps.A list of such apps that pose a threat to national security and violate Indian rules and laws was created after information from intelligence services operating in the valley. An official stated that after compiling the list, the relevant government was contacted and a ban on these mobile applications was requested. The apps have been blocked under Sector 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, the official said. Notably, these apps were spreading terror propaganda in the valley.Ban on other apps by the CentreEarlier in February, the government launched bans on various apps across the nation, targeting as many as 138 offshore betting platforms, in its digital surgical strike on China. The step was taken by the central government due to tensions between both countries over some disputes. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) ordered the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, which is also known as MeitY to ban and block up to 232 apps that come from or are connected to China in a directive that was issued on February 5. Among them were 94 online loan apps and 138 betting apps. Popular games like Rummy, Ludo and others were also on the list. Sports Betting Game – BETUP, 3patti Guide, Sports Betting, the Sportsbook, Lagai Khai Pro – Betting Game, Bet On Sports, SuperDraft Sportsbook – Prizes, Lucky slots -casino VIP, Betway – Live Sports Betting, 1xBet: sports betting, Lagai Khai Pro, WagerLab Bet on Sports & Props, Live Bet Zlive were also on the list.Steps taken by the government to combat terror in pastIndian government, in the recent past also have condemned terrorist attacks in all forms. The government also emphasised all states must stop the financing of terrorist networks and terrorist activities from their borders. They reaffirmed their commitment to stopping the use of the internet by terrorists.In addition, the National examination Agency (NIA) has established a Terror Funding and false money (TFFC) Cell to conduct a targeted examination of instances involving terror funding and false money.The government has also taken some measures to check the smuggling and circulation of fake currency. According to the intelligence, Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN) network is one of the channels of terror financing in India. FICN Coordination Group (FCORD) has been formed by the Ministry of Home Affairs to share intelligence/information among the security agencies of the states/centre to counter the problem of circulation of fake currency notes.Utilising new surveillance technology, adding more personnel for round-the-clock surveillance, setting up observation posts along international borders, erecting border fences, and intensified patrolling have all been used to increase border security. Additionally, a number of training sessions are held for police officers to educate them on the smuggling and counterfeiting of Indian currency.
