WhatsApp, one of India’s most widely used messaging platforms, has taken aggressive action against the misuse of its service, banning more than eight million Indian accounts in August 2024 alone.
In its transparency report, WhatsApp revealed that a staggering 8,458,000 accounts were blocked between August 1 and August 31, 2024. This figure reflects the platform’s increasing vigilance as it responds to violations of its terms of service and illegal activities as outlined under Indian law.
WhatsApp’s automated systems detected suspicious behaviour, banning about 1.6 million accounts before any user complaints were filed.
The company’s report is part of its compliance with India’s IT Rules 2021, particularly Rule 4(1)(d) and Rule 3A(7), which mandate periodic transparency reports. These regulations ensure that major digital platforms take responsibility for user safety and privacy.
WhatsApp’s ability to preemptively ban accounts relies heavily on advanced automated detection systems. These systems monitor messaging patterns to spot bulk messaging, spam, or other suspicious activities, often indicating scams or abusive behaviour. This approach allows the messaging platform to address potential threats before they escalate swiftly.
Alongside its automated efforts, WhatsApp received 10,707 user complaints in August 2024 through its grievance channels. However, only 93 of these complaints prompted direct action.
Users’ submitted reports included issues such as ban appeals, account support, safety concerns, and other user-related problems.
The reasons for banning WhatsApp accounts are clear and valid. Violations include the mass sending of unsolicited messages, the spread of misleading information, and scams — activities that disrupt the user experience and pose security risks.
Also, WhatsApp banned accounts that were involved in illegal activities under Indian law. The platform also takes action against accounts flagged through user complaints about abusive or inappropriate behaviour.
WhatsApp’s abuse detection operates across three key stages: during account registration, throughout messaging interactions, and based on user feedback.
The Department of Telecommunication recently rolled out a two-tier system to block international spam calls. In August 2024, the Telecomm Regulatory Authority of India also unveiled tougher rules to combat spam calls in India.
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