Identify and suggest action against apps used by terror groups: Shah, Pg12.

Key Highlights:

• Union Home Minister Amit Shah directed the Cyber and Information Security (CIS) Division to analyze and recommend action, including potential bans, on mobile apps used by terror groups.
• The directive was issued during the 'National Security Strategies Conference-2025' organized by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) in New Delhi in late July.
• Central agencies discovered the use of such apps by local overground workers in Jammu and Kashmir during the investigation into the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
• The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has observed foreign-based accused using encrypted apps like Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Zangi, and BiP to evade detection.

Detailed Insights:

• The CIS Division, established in 2017, focuses on terrorism, radicalization, cybersecurity, cybercrime, and information security.
• The CIS is coordinating with central agencies to gather information on mobile apps used by terror elements for communication.
• Gangster-turned-terrorist Harpreet Singh alias Happy Passia, arrested by the FBI in April, used encrypted apps to evade law enforcement.
• The NIA reported that accused individuals are using encrypted apps to conceal the source and destination of funds and arms.
• Amit Shah has instructed the CIS to collaborate with the IB to create a multi-agency platform similar to the Multi-Agency Centre (MAC).
• The proposed platform will include representatives from the Ministry of Electronics and IT, DRDO, defence, and academic institutions to address challenges posed by encrypted apps.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Encrypted Apps: Applications that use encryption to secure communication, making it difficult for third parties to intercept and read messages.
• Overground Workers: Individuals who provide logistical support and assistance to terrorist organizations without directly participating in violent activities.
• Multi-Agency Centre (MAC): A counter-terrorism intelligence sharing platform under the Intelligence Bureau (IB) that facilitates coordination among various intelligence agencies.