Overview

• The directive follows investigations, including the Pahalgam attack probe, where security agencies found local operatives relying on encrypted services.
• The CIS Division has formed a team and is coordinating with central agencies to identify high‑risk apps and propose actions that could include market restrictions or bans.
• Shah asked the CIS to work with the Intelligence Bureau to set up a platform on the lines of the IB’s Multi‑Agency Centre with MeitY, DRDO, defence and academic institutions to craft technical and legal solutions.
• NIA case files cite the use of Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, Zangi and BiP, including a 2024 chargesheet linking Rohan Masih and Harpreet Singh alias Happy Passia, who was arrested by the FBI in April.
• Authorities highlight challenges from end‑to‑end encryption and servers located outside India, and no enforcement action or bans have been announced; Shah separately ordered a review of helicopter operator compliance.