Calls for Regulation: Industry Body Urges Traceability and Privacy Rules for Messaging Apps

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) is advocating for the enforcement of traceability and user privacy rules on messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Google Meet. This is to ensure these apps undergo the same scrutiny as telecom operators to curb spam and illegal activities. COAI highlights the significant shift from SMS to data networks, raising security concerns.

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has urged the government to enforce traceability and user privacy rules on messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Google Meet. According to the industry body, these platforms offer similar services as telecom operators but currently lack requisite regulations.

Telecom operators argue that regulating these apps will help curb spam and illegal activities, as most messaging traffic has now shifted from SMS to data networks. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has already set a mandate for telecom operators to enhance message traceability by November 1, 2024.

S.P. Kochhar, Director General of COAI, emphasized that both national security and personal privacy are crucial, but national security should take precedence. He pointed out the high volume of complaints against OTT platforms and the negligible resolution rate as issues that need addressing through stringent regulations.

(With inputs from agencies.)