After asking working women in Afghanistan to stay at home in its second press conference on August 24, the Taliban is now requesting that all female health department employees in the centre and provinces attend their duties on a regular basis.&nbsp;

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid tweeted on Friday that the Islamic Emirate's Ministry of Public Health advises all female employees in the centre and provinces to attend to their duties on a regular basis. Women's work is not restricted in the Islamic Emirate.&nbsp;

This comes amid concerns that the Taliban will restrict women's freedom in the country, as they did during their previous tenure. 
 
<img alt="Zabihullah Mujahid" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="00a7b2ea-109f-43c9-bc95-c27c4528e52b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/111.JPG" />

Even though the insurgent group has stated that they will not restrict women from working or deny girls the right to education this time, and will ensure their freedom under Sharia law, women in Afghanistan remain concerned.

The Taliban's treatment of women and girls, according to UN Human Rights Chief Michelle Bachelet, would be a "fundamental red line."

During the Taliban's rule from 1996 to 2001, women were not allowed to work, had to cover their faces, and had to be accompanied by a male relative if they wanted to leave their homes.

(With inputs from agencies)

After asking working women in Afghanistan to stay at home in its second press conference on August 24, the Taliban is now requesting that all female health department employees in the centre and provinces attend their duties on a regular basis.

After asking working women in Afghanistan to stay at home in its second press conference on August 24, the Taliban is now requesting that all female health department employees in the centre and provinces attend their duties on a regular basis. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid tweeted on Friday that the Islamic Emirate's Ministry of Public Health advises all female employees in the centre and provinces to attend to their duties on a regular basis. Women's work is not restricted in the Islamic Emirate. This comes amid concerns that the Taliban will restrict women's freedom in the country, as they did during their previous tenure. Even though the insurgent group has stated that they will not restrict women from working or deny girls the right to education this time, and will ensure their freedom under Sharia law, women in Afghanistan remain concerned. The Taliban's treatment of women and girls, according to UN Human Rights Chief Michelle Bachelet, would be a "fundamental red line." During the Taliban's rule from 1996 to 2001, women were not allowed to work, had to cover their faces, and had to be accompanied by a male relative if they wanted to leave their homes. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban ask female health department employees to return to work

Russia's internet watchdog said on Thursday that the country has fined Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp for failing to store data of Russian users on local servers. This came amid authorities' clampdown on foreign internet companies.

Moscow's Tagansky district court fined Facebook 15 million rubles ($200,000) and Twitter 17 million rubles for repeat offences, while WhatsApp was handed a four-million-ruble fine for a first-time infraction, the Roskomnadzor watchdog said.

Authorities in Russia are ramping up control of Russian segment of the internet. Russian President Vladimir Putin has already accused western social media of flouting Russian laws.

Passed in 2014, the controversial law requires the personal data of Russian users to be stored on domestic servers.

Twitter and Facebook were first penalised for breaking the law last year, while Google was hit with its first fine last month.

Roskomnadzor said Thursday that some companies have begun complying with the legislation, including Apple, Microsoft, LG Electronics, Samsung, PayPal and Booking.com, among others.&nbsp;

Russia in recent months has been taking increasing legal action against foreign tech giants, in particular for failing to remove content at the request of Roskomnadzor.

During protests in support of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in January, authorities accused internet platforms of interfering in the country's domestic affairs by not deleting posts calling for minors to join the rallies.

Putin that month complained about the growing influence of large technology companies, which he said were competing with states.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia's internet watchdog said on Thursday that the country has fined Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp for failing to store data of Russian users on local servers.

Russia's internet watchdog said on Thursday that the country has fined Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp for failing to store data of Russian users on local servers. This came amid authorities' clampdown on foreign internet companies. Moscow's Tagansky district court fined Facebook 15 million rubles ($200,000) and Twitter 17 million rubles for repeat offences, while WhatsApp was handed a four-million-ruble fine for a first-time infraction, the Roskomnadzor watchdog said. Authorities in Russia are ramping up control of Russian segment of the internet. Russian President Vladimir Putin has already accused western social media of flouting Russian laws. Passed in 2014, the controversial law requires the personal data of Russian users to be stored on domestic servers. Twitter and Facebook were first penalised for breaking the law last year, while Google was hit with its first fine last month. Roskomnadzor said Thursday that some companies have begun complying with the legislation, including Apple, Microsoft, LG Electronics, Samsung, PayPal and Booking.com, among others. Russia in recent months has been taking increasing legal action against foreign tech giants, in particular for failing to remove content at the request of Roskomnadzor. During protests in support of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in January, authorities accused internet platforms of interfering in the country's domestic affairs by not deleting posts calling for minors to join the rallies. Putin that month complained about the growing influence of large technology companies, which he said were competing with states. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia fines Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter for breach of law

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Saturday to maintain dialogue with the Taliban and to take a "gradual" approach to relations with Afghanistan's new rulers.

"We must keep the channels of open dialogue with the Taliban and pursue a gradual engagement instead of an approach based on hard conditions," Erdogan said in a phone call with Putin, according to a statement from his office.&nbsp;

The Turkish leader also welcomed talks between the Taliban and former senior Afghan officials as "promising".&nbsp;

"We welcome the Taliban's moderate messages as positive for the moment, but the process ahead will be shaped not by their words but by their deeds," Erdogan said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-who-created-the-taliban-407485">WATCH</a>

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"The presidents agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation on Afghanistan," the Kremlin said in a statement.&nbsp;

According to Moscow, the two leaders affirmed the need to ensure "stability and a peaceful society in the country" with an emphasis on "the fight against terrorism and drug trafficking".

Turkey, which has several hundred troops in Afghanistan, is involved in securing Kabul airport with the United States.&nbsp;

In July, Ankara offered Washington to take over the airport after the withdrawal of US troops.

That plan appeared to be in jeopardy with the return of the Taliban, who have publicly warned Turkey against keeping its troops there.&nbsp;

"We can continue to secure and manage Kabul airport if the right conditions emerge," the Turkish leader said on Saturday.&nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Saturday to maintain dialogue with the Taliban and to take a "gradual" approach to relations with Afghanistan's new rulers.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Saturday to maintain dialogue with the Taliban and to take a "gradual" approach to relations with Afghanistan's new rulers. "We must keep the channels of open dialogue with the Taliban and pursue a gradual engagement instead of an approach based on hard conditions," Erdogan said in a phone call with Putin, according to a statement from his office. The Turkish leader also welcomed talks between the Taliban and former senior Afghan officials as "promising". "We welcome the Taliban's moderate messages as positive for the moment, but the process ahead will be shaped not by their words but by their deeds," Erdogan said. WATCH "The presidents agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation on Afghanistan," the Kremlin said in a statement. According to Moscow, the two leaders affirmed the need to ensure "stability and a peaceful society in the country" with an emphasis on "the fight against terrorism and drug trafficking". Turkey, which has several hundred troops in Afghanistan, is involved in securing Kabul airport with the United States. In July, Ankara offered Washington to take over the airport after the withdrawal of US troops. That plan appeared to be in jeopardy with the return of the Taliban, who have publicly warned Turkey against keeping its troops there. "We can continue to secure and manage Kabul airport if the right conditions emerge," the Turkish leader said on Saturday.

Turkey's Erdogan urges Putin to remain 'open' to Taliban

"It's mathematically impossible" for the US and its allies to evacuate tens of thousands of their Afghan personnel and families by August 31, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned Saturday.

Borrell, speaking to AFP from Spain in a telephone interview, added that "we have complained" to the Americans that their security at Kabul airport was overly strict and hampering attempts by Afghans who worked for the Europeans to enter.

August 31 is the deadline the United States had announced for the complete pullout of its forces from Afghanistan, but President Joe Biden has flagged that might be extended if airlifts remain viable.

The US military is currently in control of Kabul's airport and running its air traffic control operations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-who-created-the-taliban-407485">WATCH</a>

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"As far as I know, for the moment the Americans haven't said they will stay beyond August 31, but they might change their thinking," Borrell said.

"They want to evacuate 60,000 people between now and the end of this month. It's mathematically impossible," he said.

Borrell told AFP that, for Europe's evacuation efforts, "the problem is access to the airport -- the US checks and security measures are very strong" and were preventing the passage of Afghan staff.

He said Brussels had lodged a complaint with the US, asking for "more flexibility".

The EU's top foreign policy official had been in Madrid accompanying European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on a visit to a Spanish air base receiving incoming flights carrying European citizens and Afghan personnel -- and several American citizens.&nbsp;

He said just 150 of the 400 Afghans employed by the EU have been evacuated so far. "I'm very aware that this is very insufficient," he said.

"Planes are leaving while people are still on the tarmac," he said.

Despite his exasperation, Borrell denied there were tensions between the European Union and the United States over the ongoing evacuations.

But, he said, questions will have to be asked over "why things happened like this" and evoked a future EU summit being called to address the situation that Europe has found itself in, and what the next steps should be regarding Afghanistan.

Borrell, who this week told the European Parliament that the chaotic evacuation scenes were a "catastrophe" for the West, underlined that the European Union has been working on for some time on a strategy paper that will propose a 50,000-strong rapid reaction force to tackle future crises.

"It's mathematically impossible" for the US and its allies to evacuate tens of thousands of their Afghan personnel and families by August 31, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned Saturday.

"It's mathematically impossible" for the US and its allies to evacuate tens of thousands of their Afghan personnel and families by August 31, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned Saturday. Borrell, speaking to AFP from Spain in a telephone interview, added that "we have complained" to the Americans that their security at Kabul airport was overly strict and hampering attempts by Afghans who worked for the Europeans to enter. August 31 is the deadline the United States had announced for the complete pullout of its forces from Afghanistan, but President Joe Biden has flagged that might be extended if airlifts remain viable. The US military is currently in control of Kabul's airport and running its air traffic control operations. WATCH "As far as I know, for the moment the Americans haven't said they will stay beyond August 31, but they might change their thinking," Borrell said. "They want to evacuate 60,000 people between now and the end of this month. It's mathematically impossible," he said. Borrell told AFP that, for Europe's evacuation efforts, "the problem is access to the airport -- the US checks and security measures are very strong" and were preventing the passage of Afghan staff. He said Brussels had lodged a complaint with the US, asking for "more flexibility". The EU's top foreign policy official had been in Madrid accompanying European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on a visit to a Spanish air base receiving incoming flights carrying European citizens and Afghan personnel -- and several American citizens. He said just 150 of the 400 Afghans employed by the EU have been evacuated so far. "I'm very aware that this is very insufficient," he said. "Planes are leaving while people are still on the tarmac," he said. Despite his exasperation, Borrell denied there were tensions between the European Union and the United States over the ongoing evacuations. But, he said, questions will have to be asked over "why things happened like this" and evoked a future EU summit being called to address the situation that Europe has found itself in, and what the next steps should be regarding Afghanistan. Borrell, who this week told the European Parliament that the chaotic evacuation scenes were a "catastrophe" for the West, underlined that the European Union has been working on for some time on a strategy paper that will propose a 50,000-strong rapid reaction force to tackle future crises.

'Impossible' to evacuate all allied Afghans by Aug 31: EU

As the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, thousands of locals and foreign nationals tried their best to flee the country. However, one UK citizen has decided to stay back till all of his employees and family members have safely left Afghanistan.<o:p></o:p>

A little before the Taliban announced complete takeover of Kabul, even the former President Ashraf Ghani fled the country. However, a former British Royal Marine, Paul ‘Pen’ Farthing, has shown more courage.<o:p></o:p>

Farthing served in the UK's Royal Marine for 22 years and then set up the 'Nowzad' animal shelter in 2007, in remembrance of his first rescue dog.<o:p></o:p>

Since 2007, Farthing had managed to grow his foundation and employ a staff of 25 Afghan nationals, who had been religiously serving the animals at the shelter.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-who-created-the-taliban-407485">WATCH</a></o:p>

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"I had an opportunity, the fact that I am a British citizen, I'm going to use that to full effect - so I've said I'm not going until my staff leave this country,"&nbsp;Farthing told news agency Reuters.<o:p></o:p>

His animal shelter has also given the country its first female veterinarians. This was a huge achievement for Farthing and his animal shelter as the Taliban had not allowed women to work under their previous regime and had strongly disapproved of keeping dogs as pets.<o:p></o:p>

As the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, Farthing decided to stay in the country to ensure his employees and family members are evacuated first. "My staff don't deserve the fate that awaits them if they stay here in Afghanistan," he said.<o:p></o:p>

Farthing has also pointed out that although there is a sense of calmness in the community, contrary to the expectations, the areas near the Kabul International Airport are the ones which are highly chaotic and violent. <o:p></o:p>

“You've got the British and Americans inside and then outside you've got this throng of people; and then you have the Taliban checkpoints," Farthing said.<o:p></o:p>

As the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, thousands of locals and foreign nationals tried their best to flee the country. However, one UK citizen has decided to stay back till all of his employees and family members have safely left Afghanistan.

As the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, thousands of locals and foreign nationals tried their best to flee the country. However, one UK citizen has decided to stay back till all of his employees and family members have safely left Afghanistan. A little before the Taliban announced complete takeover of Kabul, even the former President Ashraf Ghani fled the country. However, a former British Royal Marine, Paul ‘Pen’ Farthing, has shown more courage. Farthing served in the UK's Royal Marine for 22 years and then set up the 'Nowzad' animal shelter in 2007, in remembrance of his first rescue dog. Since 2007, Farthing had managed to grow his foundation and employ a staff of 25 Afghan nationals, who had been religiously serving the animals at the shelter. WATCH "I had an opportunity, the fact that I am a British citizen, I'm going to use that to full effect - so I've said I'm not going until my staff leave this country," Farthing told news agency Reuters. His animal shelter has also given the country its first female veterinarians. This was a huge achievement for Farthing and his animal shelter as the Taliban had not allowed women to work under their previous regime and had strongly disapproved of keeping dogs as pets. As the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, Farthing decided to stay in the country to ensure his employees and family members are evacuated first. "My staff don't deserve the fate that awaits them if they stay here in Afghanistan," he said. Farthing has also pointed out that although there is a sense of calmness in the community, contrary to the expectations, the areas near the Kabul International Airport are the ones which are highly chaotic and violent. “You've got the British and Americans inside and then outside you've got this throng of people; and then you have the Taliban checkpoints," Farthing said.

UK citizen who runs animal shelter refuses to leave Afghanistan without his staff

The United States on Saturday urged its citizens in Afghanistan to avoid traveling to the Kabul airport for now, citing "potential security threats" near its gates.

The warning, posted on the website of the US Embassy in Afghanistan and tweeted by the State Department in Washington, provided no detail on the nature of the threat.

But conditions outside Hamid Karzai International Airport have been chaotic amid the crush of people hoping to flee the Taliban takeover of the country.

As thousands of Americans and Afghans wait in the airport for flights or gather outside its gates, there have been "sporadic" reports, confirmed by the Pentagon, of Taliban fighters beating and harassing people trying to flee.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-who-created-the-taliban-407485">WATCH</a>

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"Because of potential security threats outside the gates at the Kabul airport, we are advising US citizens to avoid traveling to the airport and to avoid airport gates at this time unless you receive individual instructions from a US government representative to do so," the US embassy alert said.

17,000 evacuated

Underlining the threat that the White House sees in the unfolding chaos -- and likely also due to concern over a hurricane approaching the US northeast -- President Joe Biden canceled a planned trip home to Delaware Saturday.

Pentagon officials, speaking not long after the warning was issued, declined to offer details of the threat, merely saying they were continuing to process people reaching the airport gates.

"There has been no reported change to the current enemy situation in and around the airport at this time," Major General Hank Taylor said.

He said 17,000 people had been evacuated since the operation began on August 14, with many flown first to Qatar or Kuwait. The total included 2,500 Americans.

In the past 24 hours, Taylor said, six military C-17 planes and 32 charter flights had departed the Kabul airport, carrying 3,800 people.

Taylor said three flights had already reached Dulles International Airport outside Washington, adding that Afghan citizens were being sent on to the Fort Bliss army base in western Texas for processing.

The United States hopes to evacuate a total of 30,000 Americans and Afghan civilians.

On Friday, the US military sent helicopters to rescue over 150 Americans unable to reach the airport gates, an official said.

That was the first evidence that US forces were willing and able to go beyond the US-secured compound to help people seeking evacuation.

American officials earlier confirmed that evacuation operations from Afghanistan had stalled for about seven hours Friday, because a receiving base in Qatar was overflowing.

Biden has promised to help any American in Afghanistan seeking to evacuate, saying, "Any American who wants to come home, we will get you home."

But he has admitted that the presence of thousands of US soldiers at the airport does not guarantee safe passage to that vast compound.

The United States on Saturday urged its citizens in Afghanistan to avoid traveling to the Kabul airport for now, citing "potential security threats" near its gates.

The United States on Saturday urged its citizens in Afghanistan to avoid traveling to the Kabul airport for now, citing "potential security threats" near its gates. The warning, posted on the website of the US Embassy in Afghanistan and tweeted by the State Department in Washington, provided no detail on the nature of the threat. But conditions outside Hamid Karzai International Airport have been chaotic amid the crush of people hoping to flee the Taliban takeover of the country. As thousands of Americans and Afghans wait in the airport for flights or gather outside its gates, there have been "sporadic" reports, confirmed by the Pentagon, of Taliban fighters beating and harassing people trying to flee. WATCH "Because of potential security threats outside the gates at the Kabul airport, we are advising US citizens to avoid traveling to the airport and to avoid airport gates at this time unless you receive individual instructions from a US government representative to do so," the US embassy alert said. 17,000 evacuated Underlining the threat that the White House sees in the unfolding chaos -- and likely also due to concern over a hurricane approaching the US northeast -- President Joe Biden canceled a planned trip home to Delaware Saturday. Pentagon officials, speaking not long after the warning was issued, declined to offer details of the threat, merely saying they were continuing to process people reaching the airport gates. "There has been no reported change to the current enemy situation in and around the airport at this time," Major General Hank Taylor said. He said 17,000 people had been evacuated since the operation began on August 14, with many flown first to Qatar or Kuwait. The total included 2,500 Americans. In the past 24 hours, Taylor said, six military C-17 planes and 32 charter flights had departed the Kabul airport, carrying 3,800 people. Taylor said three flights had already reached Dulles International Airport outside Washington, adding that Afghan citizens were being sent on to the Fort Bliss army base in western Texas for processing. The United States hopes to evacuate a total of 30,000 Americans and Afghan civilians. On Friday, the US military sent helicopters to rescue over 150 Americans unable to reach the airport gates, an official said. That was the first evidence that US forces were willing and able to go beyond the US-secured compound to help people seeking evacuation. American officials earlier confirmed that evacuation operations from Afghanistan had stalled for about seven hours Friday, because a receiving base in Qatar was overflowing. Biden has promised to help any American in Afghanistan seeking to evacuate, saying, "Any American who wants to come home, we will get you home." But he has admitted that the presence of thousands of US soldiers at the airport does not guarantee safe passage to that vast compound.

US tells citizens to avoid Kabul airport due to 'security threats'

Thousands rallied in central London on Saturday to protest the takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban and show solidarity with Afghans opposed to the new regime in Kabul.

Several thousand people descended on the centre of the British capital from lunchtime, massing in Hyde Park and marching down Whitehall past Downing Street, the residence and office of Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

The UK leader has faced stinging criticism this week over his government's handling of the crisis in Afghanistan, as Britain, the United States and other Western allies struggle to evacuate their citizens and others from Kabul.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-who-created-the-taliban-407485">WATCH</a>

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Protesters at the London event marched behind a banner reading "Talib has not changed", while others held signs bearing slogans like "stop killing Afghans" and "stop the oppression of Afghan women".

Many attendees also waved the black, red and green national flag of Afghanistan and chanted slogans opposing the Taliban takeover.

The Taliban has insisted it will treat women fairly and not seek retribution against Afghans who cooperated with Western forces during their two-decade involvement in the country, as thousands try to flee from Kabul amid chaotic scenes.

Many Afghans and others, including those demonstrating in London, are highly sceptical about their reassurances amid reports that militants have already begun violent reprisals against people on so-called blacklists.

Thousands rallied in central London on Saturday to protest the takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban and show solidarity with Afghans opposed to the new regime in Kabul.

Thousands rallied in central London on Saturday to protest the takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban and show solidarity with Afghans opposed to the new regime in Kabul. Several thousand people descended on the centre of the British capital from lunchtime, massing in Hyde Park and marching down Whitehall past Downing Street, the residence and office of Prime Minister Boris Johnson. The UK leader has faced stinging criticism this week over his government's handling of the crisis in Afghanistan, as Britain, the United States and other Western allies struggle to evacuate their citizens and others from Kabul. WATCH Protesters at the London event marched behind a banner reading "Talib has not changed", while others held signs bearing slogans like "stop killing Afghans" and "stop the oppression of Afghan women". Many attendees also waved the black, red and green national flag of Afghanistan and chanted slogans opposing the Taliban takeover. The Taliban has insisted it will treat women fairly and not seek retribution against Afghans who cooperated with Western forces during their two-decade involvement in the country, as thousands try to flee from Kabul amid chaotic scenes. Many Afghans and others, including those demonstrating in London, are highly sceptical about their reassurances amid reports that militants have already begun violent reprisals against people on so-called blacklists.

Thousands rally in London decrying Taliban takeover

After women being sent back home from their workplace, turns out the Taliban is sending back Afghanistan’s government employees too.<o:p></o:p>

"I went to the office this morning, but the Taliban who were at the gate told us they have not received any orders to reopen government offices," said Hamdullah, a government employee was quoted by news agency AFP. "They told us to watch TV or listen to the radio for an announcement about when to resume work."<o:p></o:p>

Since the terrorist group, Taliban, took control of Afghanistan the women and minorities have been reporting incidents of inhumane treatment. However, turns out the Taliban have also been sending back government employees back home rather than letting them go to their workplaces.

Also read :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-alternative-to-taliban-any-kind-of-resistance-will-fail-russian-envoy-to-afghanistan-407450" hreflang="en">No alternative to Taliban: Russian envoy to Afghanistan</a>

<o:p></o:p>

As per local reports, all government officers, banks, passport offices, schools and universities have been closed, especially in Kabul, since the Taliban took over the capital city on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>

While the Taliban is yet to form and announce their new government in Afghanistan, the insurgents have started going around the cities on jeeps and motorbikes to patrol and stop all anti-Taliban activities.<o:p></o:p>

Dubbed as the 'Taliban patrol', members of the Taliban have been going around in the cities in groups and threatening and beating anyone who is found protesting against the new regimen or hoisting old Afghanistan flag.

<o:p>Also read :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/talibans-websites-go-offline-as-social-media-giants-crackdown-on-group-407446">Taliban's websites go offline as social media giants crackdown on group</a></o:p>

Majority of the roads have also been closed with several checkpoints installed at different points. In addition to all government offices, foreign exchange offices have also been shut since the Taliban took control.<o:p></o:p>

However, some members of the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation in Kabul have been allowed to enter their officers after showing their official ID card, and a few private telecommunication companies have also been allowed to operate.<o:p></o:p>

After women being sent back home from their workplace, turns out the Taliban is sending back Afghanistan’s government employees too. "I went to the office this morning, but the Taliban who were at the gate told us they have not received any orders to reopen government offices," said Hamdullah, a government employee was quoted by news agency AFP.

After women being sent back home from their workplace, turns out the Taliban is sending back Afghanistan’s government employees too. "I went to the office this morning, but the Taliban who were at the gate told us they have not received any orders to reopen government offices," said Hamdullah, a government employee was quoted by news agency AFP. "They told us to watch TV or listen to the radio for an announcement about when to resume work." Since the terrorist group, Taliban, took control of Afghanistan the women and minorities have been reporting incidents of inhumane treatment. However, turns out the Taliban have also been sending back government employees back home rather than letting them go to their workplaces. Also read : No alternative to Taliban: Russian envoy to Afghanistan As per local reports, all government officers, banks, passport offices, schools and universities have been closed, especially in Kabul, since the Taliban took over the capital city on Sunday. While the Taliban is yet to form and announce their new government in Afghanistan, the insurgents have started going around the cities on jeeps and motorbikes to patrol and stop all anti-Taliban activities. Dubbed as the 'Taliban patrol', members of the Taliban have been going around in the cities in groups and threatening and beating anyone who is found protesting against the new regimen or hoisting old Afghanistan flag. Also read : Taliban's websites go offline as social media giants crackdown on group Majority of the roads have also been closed with several checkpoints installed at different points. In addition to all government offices, foreign exchange offices have also been shut since the Taliban took control. However, some members of the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation in Kabul have been allowed to enter their officers after showing their official ID card, and a few private telecommunication companies have also been allowed to operate.

After women, Taliban send back Afghan's government employees

Taliban websites that delivered all important pieces of information to the rest of the world in different languages have gone offline abruptly.<o:p></o:p>

Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, it has been painting a picture of change infront of the rest of the world. The Taliban have been trying to prove to the world that Afghanistan this time will be different under their rule, when compared to their previous regimen.<o:p></o:p>

However, locals have been narrating different sides of the reality and are coming ahead to prove that the situation is not that different from what it was before 2001.

<o:p>Also read : <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/with-new-afghan-govt-on-cards-talibans-co-founder-baradar-reaches-kabul-407410">With new Afghan govt on cards, Taliban's co-founder Baradar reaches Kabul</a></o:p>

In one such contradictory claim, the Taliban has tried to prove that they will be more open and fairer this time. However, on Friday as the Taliban websites went offline, the world started thinking if the Taliban have managed to take control over internet activities too.<o:p></o:p>

The Taliban deliver their victorious messages in five different language — Pashto, Arabic, Urdu, English and Dari — through a host of websites. However, all those websites were taken down abruptly on Friday, without giving any reason behind this move.<o:p></o:p>

These websites have been shielded by Cloudflare, which is a San Francisco-based content delivery network and denial of service protection provider. Cloudflare protects the websites by preventing the public from knowing who hosts the sites.<o:p></o:p>

This action has raised eyebrows as the Taliban today is highly tech-savvy and has heavily relied upon the internet to communicate all of its victorious messages and warnings.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-in-constant-contact-with-the-taliban-leadership-says-us-president-joe-biden-407415">WATCH&nbsp;</a></o:p>

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It is a possibility that the removal of these websites is just temporary as the Taliban decide new hosting arrangements.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp and Google have started removing all Taliban-related accounts and content from their platform to make sure no misinformation is passed on and their platforms are not used to spread more hatred or violence.<o:p></o:p>

WhatsApp is "obligated to adhere to US sanctions laws. This includes banning accounts that appear to represent themselves as official accounts of the Taliban," its spokesperson Danielle Meister told the AP.<o:p></o:p>

However, Twitter is one rare platform that has allowed the Taliban to operate on the social media platform. Taliban’s spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid still has more than 300,000 followers on Twitter. The social media platform says that the accounts will not be banned unless these people or groups misuse the platform to incite or glorify violence and hatred.<o:p></o:p>

Taliban websites that delivered all important pieces of information to the rest of the world in different languages have gone offline abruptly. Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, it has been painting a picture of change infront of the rest of the world.

Taliban websites that delivered all important pieces of information to the rest of the world in different languages have gone offline abruptly. Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, it has been painting a picture of change infront of the rest of the world. The Taliban have been trying to prove to the world that Afghanistan this time will be different under their rule, when compared to their previous regimen. However, locals have been narrating different sides of the reality and are coming ahead to prove that the situation is not that different from what it was before 2001. Also read : With new Afghan govt on cards, Taliban's co-founder Baradar reaches Kabul In one such contradictory claim, the Taliban has tried to prove that they will be more open and fairer this time. However, on Friday as the Taliban websites went offline, the world started thinking if the Taliban have managed to take control over internet activities too. The Taliban deliver their victorious messages in five different language — Pashto, Arabic, Urdu, English and Dari — through a host of websites. However, all those websites were taken down abruptly on Friday, without giving any reason behind this move. These websites have been shielded by Cloudflare, which is a San Francisco-based content delivery network and denial of service protection provider. Cloudflare protects the websites by preventing the public from knowing who hosts the sites. This action has raised eyebrows as the Taliban today is highly tech-savvy and has heavily relied upon the internet to communicate all of its victorious messages and warnings. WATCH It is a possibility that the removal of these websites is just temporary as the Taliban decide new hosting arrangements. Meanwhile, social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp and Google have started removing all Taliban-related accounts and content from their platform to make sure no misinformation is passed on and their platforms are not used to spread more hatred or violence. WhatsApp is "obligated to adhere to US sanctions laws. This includes banning accounts that appear to represent themselves as official accounts of the Taliban," its spokesperson Danielle Meister told the AP. However, Twitter is one rare platform that has allowed the Taliban to operate on the social media platform. Taliban’s spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid still has more than 300,000 followers on Twitter. The social media platform says that the accounts will not be banned unless these people or groups misuse the platform to incite or glorify violence and hatred.

Taliban's websites go offline as social media giants crackdown on group

The Taliban's rapid takeover of&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;poses challenges for multiple major social media and messaging platforms on what and who should be allowed on their platforms.

The companies, which have come under fire from global lawmakers and regulators for their outsized political and economic influence, often depend on state designations or official international recognitions to determine who is allowed on their sites.

These also help determine who might be verified, allowed official state accounts or may receive special treatment for rule-breaking speech due to newsworthiness or public interest loopholes.

However, the differences among the tech companies' stances suggest the approach is not uniform.

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Here is what various social media giants are doing after the Taliban&nbsp;seized Kabul, confirming their takeover of power in Afghanistan after a stunningly swift end to the country's 20-year war.

Facebook blocks WhatsApp accounts

WhatsApp accounts linked to the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;have been banned after the radical Islamic group seized control of Afghanistan and sought to use the messaging service to help it govern.

"The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;is sanctioned as a terrorist organization under US law and we have banned them from our services under our Dangerous Organization policies," a Facebook spokesperson said.

The Facebook move shut down a WhatsApp hotline the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;had set up to receive complaints about violence and looting, according to the Financial Times.

Facebook had on Monday said it designates the Taliban a terrorist group and bans it and content supporting it from its platforms.

Twitter

On&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;Inc, Taliban spokesmen with hundreds of thousands of followers have tweeted updates during the country's takeover.

However, the company has issued&nbsp;a statement saying that the network would review Taliban's content that may violate its rules, specifically against the glorification of violence or platform manipulation.

Youtube

Alphabet Inc’s YouTube said on Tuesday it has a long-held policy of not allowing accounts believed to be operated by the Taliban on its site, as social media companies faced questions about how they would handle the group that fast gained control of&nbsp;Afghanistan.

The video-sharing service relies on governments to define "Foreign Terrorist Organizations" (FTO) to guide the site's enforcement of its rules against violent criminal groups.

The US&nbsp;instead classifies the Taliban as a "Specially Designated Global Terrorist," which freezes the US&nbsp;assets of those blacklisted and bars Americans from working with them.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Taliban's rapid takeover of Afghanistan poses challenges for multiple major social media and messaging platforms on what and who should be allowed on their platforms.

The Taliban's rapid takeover of Afghanistan poses challenges for multiple major social media and messaging platforms on what and who should be allowed on their platforms. The companies, which have come under fire from global lawmakers and regulators for their outsized political and economic influence, often depend on state designations or official international recognitions to determine who is allowed on their sites. These also help determine who might be verified, allowed official state accounts or may receive special treatment for rule-breaking speech due to newsworthiness or public interest loopholes. However, the differences among the tech companies' stances suggest the approach is not uniform. Here is what various social media giants are doing after the Taliban seized Kabul, confirming their takeover of power in Afghanistan after a stunningly swift end to the country's 20-year war. Facebook blocks WhatsApp accounts WhatsApp accounts linked to the Taliban have been banned after the radical Islamic group seized control of Afghanistan and sought to use the messaging service to help it govern. "The Taliban is sanctioned as a terrorist organization under US law and we have banned them from our services under our Dangerous Organization policies," a Facebook spokesperson said. The Facebook move shut down a WhatsApp hotline the Taliban had set up to receive complaints about violence and looting, according to the Financial Times. Facebook had on Monday said it designates the Taliban a terrorist group and bans it and content supporting it from its platforms. Twitter On Twitter Inc, Taliban spokesmen with hundreds of thousands of followers have tweeted updates during the country's takeover. However, the company has issued a statement saying that the network would review Taliban's content that may violate its rules, specifically against the glorification of violence or platform manipulation. Youtube Alphabet Inc’s YouTube said on Tuesday it has a long-held policy of not allowing accounts believed to be operated by the Taliban on its site, as social media companies faced questions about how they would handle the group that fast gained control of Afghanistan. The video-sharing service relies on governments to define "Foreign Terrorist Organizations" (FTO) to guide the site's enforcement of its rules against violent criminal groups. The US instead classifies the Taliban as a "Specially Designated Global Terrorist," which freezes the US assets of those blacklisted and bars Americans from working with them. (With inputs from agencies)

What are social media giants doing to curb Taliban amid Afghanistan crisis?

The Taliban's rapid takeover of Afghanistan poses a new challenge for big US tech companies on handling content created by a group considered to be terrorists by some world governments.

Social media giant&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;confirmed on Monday that it designates the Taliban as a terrorist group and bans it and content supporting it from its platforms.

But Taliban members have reportedly continued to use&nbsp;Facebook's end-to-end encrypted messaging service WhatsApp to communicate directly with Afghanis despite the company prohibiting it under rules against dangerous organisations.

A&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;Inc spokesperson said the company was closely monitoring the situation in the country and that WhatsApp would take action on any accounts found to be linked with sanctioned organizations in Afghanistan, which could include account removal.

On Twitter Inc, Taliban spokesmen with hundreds of thousands of followers have tweeted updates during the country's takeover.

Asked about the Taliban's use of the platform, the company pointed to its policies against violent organizations and hateful conduct but did not answer Reuters questions about how it makes its classifications. Twitter's rules say it does not allow groups that promote terrorism or violence against civilians.

The Taliban's return has raised fears it will crackdown on freedom of speech and human rights, especially women's rights, and that the country could become a haven once again for global terrorism.

Taliban officials have issued statements saying they want peaceful international relations and have promised to protect Afghans.

Major social media firms this year made high-profile decisions on handling sitting world leaders and groups in power.

These include controversial blocks of former US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> for inciting violence around the Jan. 6 Capitol riot and bans on Myanmar's military amid a coup in the country.

Facebook, which was long criticized for failing to combat hate speech in Myanmar, said the coup escalated risks of offline harm and its history of human rights violations contributed to the ban on the ruling military or Tatmadaw.

The companies, which have come under fire from global lawmakers and regulators for their outsized political and economic influence, often depend on state designations or official international recognitions to determine who is allowed on their sites.

These also help determine who might be verified, allowed official state accounts or may receive special treatment for rule-breaking speech due to newsworthiness or public interest loopholes.

However, the differences among the tech companies' stances suggest the approach is not uniform.

Alphabet Inc's YouTube asked whether it has a ban or restrictions on the Taliban, declined to comment but said the video-sharing service relies on governments to define "Foreign Terrorist Organizations" (FTO) to guide the site's enforcement of its rules against violent criminal groups.

YouTube pointed to the US State Department's list of FTO's of which the Taliban is not a member. The US instead classifies the Taliban as a "Specially Designated Global Terrorist," which freezes the US assets of those blacklisted and bars Americans from working with them.

Complicating matters further, though most countries show little sign they will recognize the group diplomatically, the Taliban's position on the world stage may yet shift as they cement control.

"The Taliban is somewhat an accepted player at an international relations level," said Mohammed Sinan Siyech, a researcher on security in South Asia and doctoral candidate at the University of Edinburgh, pointing to talks China and the United States have held with the group.

"If that recognition comes in, then for a company like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/twitter">Twitter</a> or&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;to make a subjective decision that this group is bad and we will not host them poses complications."

The Taliban's rapid takeover of Afghanistan poses a new challenge for big US tech companies on handling content created by a group considered to be terrorists by some world governments.

The Taliban's rapid takeover of Afghanistan poses a new challenge for big US tech companies on handling content created by a group considered to be terrorists by some world governments. Social media giant Facebook confirmed on Monday that it designates the Taliban as a terrorist group and bans it and content supporting it from its platforms. But Taliban members have reportedly continued to use Facebook's end-to-end encrypted messaging service WhatsApp to communicate directly with Afghanis despite the company prohibiting it under rules against dangerous organisations. A Facebook Inc spokesperson said the company was closely monitoring the situation in the country and that WhatsApp would take action on any accounts found to be linked with sanctioned organizations in Afghanistan, which could include account removal. On Twitter Inc, Taliban spokesmen with hundreds of thousands of followers have tweeted updates during the country's takeover. Asked about the Taliban's use of the platform, the company pointed to its policies against violent organizations and hateful conduct but did not answer Reuters questions about how it makes its classifications. Twitter's rules say it does not allow groups that promote terrorism or violence against civilians. The Taliban's return has raised fears it will crackdown on freedom of speech and human rights, especially women's rights, and that the country could become a haven once again for global terrorism. Taliban officials have issued statements saying they want peaceful international relations and have promised to protect Afghans. Major social media firms this year made high-profile decisions on handling sitting world leaders and groups in power. These include controversial blocks of former US President Donald Trump for inciting violence around the Jan. 6 Capitol riot and bans on Myanmar's military amid a coup in the country. Facebook, which was long criticized for failing to combat hate speech in Myanmar, said the coup escalated risks of offline harm and its history of human rights violations contributed to the ban on the ruling military or Tatmadaw. The companies, which have come under fire from global lawmakers and regulators for their outsized political and economic influence, often depend on state designations or official international recognitions to determine who is allowed on their sites. These also help determine who might be verified, allowed official state accounts or may receive special treatment for rule-breaking speech due to newsworthiness or public interest loopholes. However, the differences among the tech companies' stances suggest the approach is not uniform. Alphabet Inc's YouTube asked whether it has a ban or restrictions on the Taliban, declined to comment but said the video-sharing service relies on governments to define "Foreign Terrorist Organizations" (FTO) to guide the site's enforcement of its rules against violent criminal groups. YouTube pointed to the US State Department's list of FTO's of which the Taliban is not a member. The US instead classifies the Taliban as a "Specially Designated Global Terrorist," which freezes the US assets of those blacklisted and bars Americans from working with them. Complicating matters further, though most countries show little sign they will recognize the group diplomatically, the Taliban's position on the world stage may yet shift as they cement control. "The Taliban is somewhat an accepted player at an international relations level," said Mohammed Sinan Siyech, a researcher on security in South Asia and doctoral candidate at the University of Edinburgh, pointing to talks China and the United States have held with the group. "If that recognition comes in, then for a company like Twitter or Facebook to make a subjective decision that this group is bad and we will not host them poses complications."

Facebook bans Taliban and its supporting content, designates it as a terrorist group

Chinese short-video platform <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tiktok">TikTok</a> has overtaken <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/facebook">Facebook</a> as the most downloaded social media app in the world, the media reported. 
 
According to Nikkei Asia, a global survey of downloads in 2020 showed TikTok on top of the list of social media providers for the first time since the study was first conducted in 2018.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/source-of-income-for-poor-pakistan-court-questions-telecom-authority-over-banning-of-tiktok-404218" hreflang="en">'Source of income for poor': Pakistan court questions telecom authority over banning of TikTok</a> 
 
The report said that TikTok's parent company ByteDance launched the international version of the short-video platform in 2017, and has since overtaken Facebook, WhatsApp, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/instagram">Instagram</a> and Facebook Messenger, all of which are Facebook-owned, in downloads, even in the US. 
 
The app's popularity grew during the pandemic when it became the leading download in Europe, South America and the US, the report said on Monday. 
 
Chat and communications platform Discord has benefited from people's need to isolate during the pandemic. It is popular among gamers for chatting when online and has been funded by Sony Group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktok-tests-disappearing-videos-feature-but-with-a-twist-403120" hreflang="en">TikTok tests disappearing videos feature, but with a twist</a> 
 
At the start of 2021, WhatsApp announced that it would share messaging data with Facebook relating to interactions between users and companies. Although WhatsApp promised to protect information about communications between friends and family, some users moved over to other apps. 
 
Bucking that trend, Telegram, a messaging app originally developed in Russia but now based in Germany, moved up to seventh. The report mentioned that Telegram has also been driven up by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 pandemic</a>. 
 
China's Likee, a TikTok competitor, that many companies use for marketing has ranked eighth in the latest global download league.

Chinese short-video platform TikTok has overtaken Facebook as the most downloaded social media app in the world, the media reported. According to Nikkei Asia, a global survey of downloads in 2020 showed TikTok on top of the list of social media providers for the first time since the study was first conducted in 2018.

Chinese short-video platform TikTok has overtaken Facebook as the most downloaded social media app in the world, the media reported. According to Nikkei Asia, a global survey of downloads in 2020 showed TikTok on top of the list of social media providers for the first time since the study was first conducted in 2018. Also read | 'Source of income for poor': Pakistan court questions telecom authority over banning of TikTok The report said that TikTok's parent company ByteDance launched the international version of the short-video platform in 2017, and has since overtaken Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook Messenger, all of which are Facebook-owned, in downloads, even in the US. The app's popularity grew during the pandemic when it became the leading download in Europe, South America and the US, the report said on Monday. Chat and communications platform Discord has benefited from people's need to isolate during the pandemic. It is popular among gamers for chatting when online and has been funded by Sony Group. Also read | TikTok tests disappearing videos feature, but with a twist At the start of 2021, WhatsApp announced that it would share messaging data with Facebook relating to interactions between users and companies. Although WhatsApp promised to protect information about communications between friends and family, some users moved over to other apps. Bucking that trend, Telegram, a messaging app originally developed in Russia but now based in Germany, moved up to seventh. The report mentioned that Telegram has also been driven up by the COVID-19 pandemic. China's Likee, a TikTok competitor, that many companies use for marketing has ranked eighth in the latest global download league.

TikTok overtakes Facebook as most world's most downloaded app

Apple's announcement that it would scan encrypted messages for evidence of child sexual abuse has revived debate on online encryption and privacy, raising fears the same technology could be used for government surveillance.

The iPhone maker said its initiative&nbsp;would "help protect children from predators who use communication tools to recruit and exploit them, and limit the spread of child sexual abuse material."

The move represents a major shift for Apple, which has until recently resisted efforts to weaken its encryption that prevents third parties from seeing private messages.

Apple argued in a technical paper that the technology developed by cryptographic experts "is secure, and is expressly designed to preserve user privacy."

The company said it will have limited access to the violating images which would be flagged to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, a nonprofit organization.

Nonetheless, encryption and private specialists warned the tool could be exploited for other purposes, potentially opening a door to mass surveillance.

"This sort of tool can be a boon for finding child pornography in people's phones. But imagine what it could do in the hands of an authoritarian government?" said a tweet from Matthew Green, a cryptographer at Johns Hopkins University.

Others warned that the move could be a first step toward weakening encryption and opening "back doors" which could be exploited by hackers or governments.

"There's going to be enormous pressure on Apple from governments around the world to expand this capability to detect other kinds of 'bad' content, and significant interest by attackers across the spectrum in finding ways to exploit it," tweeted Matt Blaze, a Georgetown University computer scientist and cryptography researcher.

Blaze said the implementation is "potentially very risky" because Apple has moved from scanning data on services to the phone itself and "has potential access to all your local data."

Tools to protect children 

The new image-monitoring feature is part of a series of tools heading to Apple mobile devices, according to the company.

Apple's texting app, Messages, will use machine learning to recognise and warn children and their parents when receiving or sending sexually explicit photos, the company said in the statement.

"When receiving this type of content, the photo will be blurred and the child will be warned," Apple said.

"Apple's expanded protection for children is a game changer," said John Clark, president of the nonprofit NCMEC.

The move comes following years of standoffs involving technology firms and law enforcement.

Apple notably resisted a legal effort to weaken iPhone encryption to allow authorities to read messages from a suspect in a 2015 bombing in San Bernardino, California.

FBI officials have warned that so-called "end to end encryption," where only the user and recipient can read messages, can protect criminals, terrorists and pornographers even when authorities have a legal warrant for an investigation.

Different tack for&nbsp;WhatsApp&nbsp;

Facebook, which has faced criticism that its encrypted messaging app facilitates crime, has been studying the use of artificial intelligence to analyse the content of messages without decrypting them, according to a recent report by The Information.

But&nbsp;WhatsApp&nbsp;head Will Cathcart said the popular messaging app would not follow Apple's approach.

"I think this is the wrong approach and a setback for people's privacy all over the world," Cathcart tweeted.

Apple's system "can scan all the private photos on your phone -- even photos you haven't shared with anyone. That's not privacy," he said.

"People have asked if we'll adopt this system for&nbsp;WhatsApp. The answer is no."

Backers of encryption argue that authorities already have multiple sources of "digital breadcrumbs" to track nefarious activity and that any tools to break encryption could be exploited by bad actors.

James Lewis, who heads technology and public policy at the Center for Strategic and International&nbsp;Studies, said Apple's latest move appears to be a positive step, noting that the company is identifying offending material while avoiding directly turning over data to law enforcement.

But he said it's unlikely to satisfy the concerns of security agencies investigating extremism and other crimes.

"Apple has done a good job of balancing public safety and privacy but it's not enough for some of the harder security problems," Lewis said.

Apple's announcement that it would scan encrypted messages for evidence of child sexual abuse has revived debate on online encryption and privacy, raising fears the same technology could be used for government surveillance.

Apple's announcement that it would scan encrypted messages for evidence of child sexual abuse has revived debate on online encryption and privacy, raising fears the same technology could be used for government surveillance. The iPhone maker said its initiative would "help protect children from predators who use communication tools to recruit and exploit them, and limit the spread of child sexual abuse material." The move represents a major shift for Apple, which has until recently resisted efforts to weaken its encryption that prevents third parties from seeing private messages. Apple argued in a technical paper that the technology developed by cryptographic experts "is secure, and is expressly designed to preserve user privacy." The company said it will have limited access to the violating images which would be flagged to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, a nonprofit organization. Nonetheless, encryption and private specialists warned the tool could be exploited for other purposes, potentially opening a door to mass surveillance. "This sort of tool can be a boon for finding child pornography in people's phones. But imagine what it could do in the hands of an authoritarian government?" said a tweet from Matthew Green, a cryptographer at Johns Hopkins University. Others warned that the move could be a first step toward weakening encryption and opening "back doors" which could be exploited by hackers or governments. "There's going to be enormous pressure on Apple from governments around the world to expand this capability to detect other kinds of 'bad' content, and significant interest by attackers across the spectrum in finding ways to exploit it," tweeted Matt Blaze, a Georgetown University computer scientist and cryptography researcher. Blaze said the implementation is "potentially very risky" because Apple has moved from scanning data on services to the phone itself and "has potential access to all your local data." Tools to protect children The new image-monitoring feature is part of a series of tools heading to Apple mobile devices, according to the company. Apple's texting app, Messages, will use machine learning to recognise and warn children and their parents when receiving or sending sexually explicit photos, the company said in the statement. "When receiving this type of content, the photo will be blurred and the child will be warned," Apple said. "Apple's expanded protection for children is a game changer," said John Clark, president of the nonprofit NCMEC. The move comes following years of standoffs involving technology firms and law enforcement. Apple notably resisted a legal effort to weaken iPhone encryption to allow authorities to read messages from a suspect in a 2015 bombing in San Bernardino, California. FBI officials have warned that so-called "end to end encryption," where only the user and recipient can read messages, can protect criminals, terrorists and pornographers even when authorities have a legal warrant for an investigation. Different tack for WhatsApp Facebook, which has faced criticism that its encrypted messaging app facilitates crime, has been studying the use of artificial intelligence to analyse the content of messages without decrypting them, according to a recent report by The Information. But WhatsApp head Will Cathcart said the popular messaging app would not follow Apple's approach. "I think this is the wrong approach and a setback for people's privacy all over the world," Cathcart tweeted. Apple's system "can scan all the private photos on your phone -- even photos you haven't shared with anyone. That's not privacy," he said. "People have asked if we'll adopt this system for WhatsApp. The answer is no." Backers of encryption argue that authorities already have multiple sources of "digital breadcrumbs" to track nefarious activity and that any tools to break encryption could be exploited by bad actors. James Lewis, who heads technology and public policy at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said Apple's latest move appears to be a positive step, noting that the company is identifying offending material while avoiding directly turning over data to law enforcement. But he said it's unlikely to satisfy the concerns of security agencies investigating extremism and other crimes. "Apple has done a good job of balancing public safety and privacy but it's not enough for some of the harder security problems," Lewis said.

Apple revives encryption debate with move on child exploitation, WhatsApp disagrees

Facebook-owned messaging service&nbsp;WhatsApp&nbsp;has announced the launch of&nbsp;disappearing photos and videos on its platform starting this week, as it looks to better compete with Snap Inc's photo messaging app&nbsp;Snapchat.

In a blog post,&nbsp;Facebook said the&nbsp;feature, called 'View Once', will let photos and videos disappear from the chat after they have been seen.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-tech-titans-are-making-billions-during-the-pandemic-402687/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After the media has been viewed, the message will appear as “opened” to avoid any confusion about what was happening in the chat at the time.&nbsp;

Since its launch in 2009 as a smartphone messaging app,&nbsp;WhatsApp&nbsp;has amassed more than two billion users around the world and was acquired by Facebook.

Snapchat, known for its Stories feature that lets users post updates that disappear after 24 hours, has grown in popularity last year as pandemic-induced curbs kept users at home. The company has also been adding new features on its messaging app to attract more users.

Users prefer WhatsApp over Snapchat because it is available on a personal computer, does not have advertisements, can be personalised, and supports more languages.

However,&nbsp;WhatsApp had received backlash after it forced&nbsp;users to accept new terms of sharing data with&nbsp;Facebook.

As a result of the&nbsp;flap over its&nbsp;privacy policy,&nbsp;described by Facebook as a misunderstanding about efforts to bring businesses onto the platform,&nbsp;it had to retreat and delay it.

The update was supposed to allow additional sharing of information from&nbsp;WhatsApp&nbsp;with Facebook and its other applications such as Instagram and Messenger, such as contacts and profile data, but not the content of messages which remain encrypted.

It was among the latest episodes highlighting concerns over the tech giant's privacy and data protection policies.

(With inputs from agencies)

Facebook-owned messaging service WhatsApp has announced the launch of disappearing photos and videos on its platform starting this week, as it looks to better compete with Snap Inc's photo messaging app Snapchat.

Facebook-owned messaging service WhatsApp has announced the launch of disappearing photos and videos on its platform starting this week, as it looks to better compete with Snap Inc's photo messaging app Snapchat. In a blog post, Facebook said the feature, called 'View Once', will let photos and videos disappear from the chat after they have been seen. After the media has been viewed, the message will appear as “opened” to avoid any confusion about what was happening in the chat at the time. Since its launch in 2009 as a smartphone messaging app, WhatsApp has amassed more than two billion users around the world and was acquired by Facebook. Snapchat, known for its Stories feature that lets users post updates that disappear after 24 hours, has grown in popularity last year as pandemic-induced curbs kept users at home. The company has also been adding new features on its messaging app to attract more users. Users prefer WhatsApp over Snapchat because it is available on a personal computer, does not have advertisements, can be personalised, and supports more languages. However, WhatsApp had received backlash after it forced users to accept new terms of sharing data with Facebook. As a result of the flap over its privacy policy, described by Facebook as a misunderstanding about efforts to bring businesses onto the platform, it had to retreat and delay it. The update was supposed to allow additional sharing of information from WhatsApp with Facebook and its other applications such as Instagram and Messenger, such as contacts and profile data, but not the content of messages which remain encrypted. It was among the latest episodes highlighting concerns over the tech giant's privacy and data protection policies. (With inputs from agencies)

WhatsApp is doing a Snapchat: Facebook-owned messaging service rolls out option for disappearing photos, videos

WhatsApp blocked more than two million users in India in just one month for violating its rules, the US company disclosed in its first compliance report under India's controversial new social media rules.

Most of the users were blocked for spam message abuses. The Facebook-owned firm has put a limit on mass-forward messaging in a bid to counter misinformation.

India implemented new rules in May to regulate social media companies, forcing them to disclose each month their efforts to police their platforms.

"We maintain advanced capabilities to identify these accounts sending a high or abnormal rate of messages and banned two million accounts in India alone from May 15 to June 15 attempting this kind of abuse," WhatsApp said in its report released late Thursday.

The company said its "top focus" remains on preventing the spread of harmful and unwanted messages.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/whatsapp-tests-function-to-allow-users-to-log-in-without-linking-to-smartphones-398468">Also read |&nbsp;WhatsApp tests function to allow users to log in without linking to smartphones</a>

WhatsApp has more than 400 million users in India, one of its top markets, but has often found itself facing criticism over the spread of misinformation.

Dozens of people were lynched in India in 2018 following rumours spread on WhatsApp about gangs stealing children.

The incidents prompted the messaging app to introduce a limit on bulk forward messaging in India.

WhatsApp and some Indian media firms have sought to challenge the new social media rules in court. Critics say the government is seeking to crush dissent but the government says it is attempting to make social media safer.

Under the rules, social media platforms have to share details of the "first originator" of posts deemed to undermine India's sovereignty, state security or public order.

WhatsApp says the rules violate India's privacy laws.

WhatsApp blocked more than two million users in India in just one month for violating its rules, the US company disclosed in its first compliance report under India's controversial new social media rules.

WhatsApp blocked more than two million users in India in just one month for violating its rules, the US company disclosed in its first compliance report under India's controversial new social media rules. Most of the users were blocked for spam message abuses. The Facebook-owned firm has put a limit on mass-forward messaging in a bid to counter misinformation. India implemented new rules in May to regulate social media companies, forcing them to disclose each month their efforts to police their platforms. "We maintain advanced capabilities to identify these accounts sending a high or abnormal rate of messages and banned two million accounts in India alone from May 15 to June 15 attempting this kind of abuse," WhatsApp said in its report released late Thursday. The company said its "top focus" remains on preventing the spread of harmful and unwanted messages. Also read | WhatsApp tests function to allow users to log in without linking to smartphones WhatsApp has more than 400 million users in India, one of its top markets, but has often found itself facing criticism over the spread of misinformation. Dozens of people were lynched in India in 2018 following rumours spread on WhatsApp about gangs stealing children. The incidents prompted the messaging app to introduce a limit on bulk forward messaging in India. WhatsApp and some Indian media firms have sought to challenge the new social media rules in court. Critics say the government is seeking to crush dissent but the government says it is attempting to make social media safer. Under the rules, social media platforms have to share details of the "first originator" of posts deemed to undermine India's sovereignty, state security or public order. WhatsApp says the rules violate India's privacy laws.

WhatsApp blocks 2 million Indian users over messaging violations

WhatsApp, the hugely popular instant messaging app, has announced that it is testing new capability that will free its users from smartphones.

Currently, users can run their WhatsApp account via other devices (like desktops) but the user needs to be connected to internet via smartphone on which respective WhatsApp account is installed. The phone cannot be switched off and in case of network loss, the app does not work simultaneously on other devices.

The new capabilities appear to be aimed at decreasing users' dependence on smartphones in order to run Facebook-owned WhatsApp on other devices.

In a blog post on Wednesday, Facebook engineers said the new feature would allow for the hugely popular service be used on multiple "non-phone" devices without needing to connect to the smartphone app.&nbsp;

"The new WhatsApp multi-device architecture removes these hurdles" by no longer requiring a smartphone to perform every operation, the company said.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/watch-now-use-your-bodys-energy-to-charge-smartphones-and-watches-398373">Watch: Now use your body's energy to charge smartphones and watches</a>

The new capability will be expanded more broadly as it is refined, Facebook added.

It also made assurances that WhatsApp's security measures will still work under the new system.&nbsp;

"Each companion device will connect to your WhatsApp independently while maintaining the same level of privacy and security through end-to-end encryption that people who use WhatsApp have come to expect."

(With inputs from agencies)

WhatsApp, the hugely popular instant messaging app, has announced that it is testing new capability that will free its users from smartphones. Currently, users can run their WhatsApp account via other devices (like desktops) but the user needs to be connected to internet via smartphone on which respective WhatsApp account is installed.

WhatsApp, the hugely popular instant messaging app, has announced that it is testing new capability that will free its users from smartphones. Currently, users can run their WhatsApp account via other devices (like desktops) but the user needs to be connected to internet via smartphone on which respective WhatsApp account is installed. The phone cannot be switched off and in case of network loss, the app does not work simultaneously on other devices. The new capabilities appear to be aimed at decreasing users' dependence on smartphones in order to run Facebook-owned WhatsApp on other devices. In a blog post on Wednesday, Facebook engineers said the new feature would allow for the hugely popular service be used on multiple "non-phone" devices without needing to connect to the smartphone app. "The new WhatsApp multi-device architecture removes these hurdles" by no longer requiring a smartphone to perform every operation, the company said. Also Read | Watch: Now use your body's energy to charge smartphones and watches The new capability will be expanded more broadly as it is refined, Facebook added. It also made assurances that WhatsApp's security measures will still work under the new system. "Each companion device will connect to your WhatsApp independently while maintaining the same level of privacy and security through end-to-end encryption that people who use WhatsApp have come to expect." (With inputs from agencies)

WhatsApp tests function to allow users to log in without linking to smartphones

One person has been dead and dozens have been arrested in Cuba after thousands joined the biggest protests for decades against the Communist government. The government has restricted access to social media and messaging platforms including Facebook and WhatsApp in the country.

Cuba protests: One person dead, several arrested after rare demonstrations

Cuba has restricted access to social media and messaging platforms including Facebook and WhatsApp, in the wake of the biggest anti-government protests in decades.

Cuba restricts access to social media platforms to curb protests

Whatsapp told the Delhi High Court on Friday that till the data protection bill comes into force, it would not compel users to opt for its new privacy policy as it has been put on hold.

Whatsapp also clarified before the bench of Chief justice D N Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh that it would not limit the functionality for users who are not opting for a new privacy policy in the meantime.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/whatsapp-goes-to-court-over-indian-governments-new-it-rules-387479">WhatsApp goes to court over Indian government's new IT rules</a>

Appearing for the instant messaging platform, Senior Advocate Harish Salve said, "We voluntarily agreed to put it (the policy) on hold... We will not compel people to accept."

Salve said that Whatsapp would nonetheless continue to display the update to its users.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-whatsapp-tricking-users-into-consent-389315/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The court is hearing the appeals of Facebook and its firm WhatsApp against the single-judge order refusing to stop the competition regulator CCI's order directing a probe into WhatsApp's new privacy policy.&nbsp;

Whatsapp told the Delhi High Court on Friday that till the data protection bill comes into force, it would not compel users to opt for its new privacy policy as it has been put on hold.

Whatsapp told the Delhi High Court on Friday that till the data protection bill comes into force, it would not compel users to opt for its new privacy policy as it has been put on hold. Whatsapp also clarified before the bench of Chief justice D N Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh that it would not limit the functionality for users who are not opting for a new privacy policy in the meantime. Also read | WhatsApp goes to court over Indian government's new IT rules Appearing for the instant messaging platform, Senior Advocate Harish Salve said, "We voluntarily agreed to put it (the policy) on hold... We will not compel people to accept." Salve said that Whatsapp would nonetheless continue to display the update to its users. The court is hearing the appeals of Facebook and its firm WhatsApp against the single-judge order refusing to stop the competition regulator CCI's order directing a probe into WhatsApp's new privacy policy.

Won't compel users to accept new privacy policy, WhatsApp tells Delhi HC

WhatsApp tricking users into consent? The Indian govt says the platform is indulging in 'anti-user practices' for its updated privacy policy. WhatsApp says it won't limit user functionality but won't overturn the policy either. WION’s Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Is WhatsApp tricking users into consent?

In order to stay up-to-date and in demand, WhatsApp is releasing new features. Just like Snapchat, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/whatsapp">WhatsApp</a> is also coming up with a 'view once' feature. Very soon, Facebook CEO <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/mark-zuckerberg">Mark Zuckerberg</a> confirmed.

In this mode, once a user sends photos and videos, the receiver will be able to open the multimedia only once, and upon opening the media, it will disappear from the chat. However, unlike Snapchat, users can take screenshots of the media in WhatsApp, without the sender being notified about it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/considering-leaving-whatsapp-here-are-a-few-apps-that-can-be-used-as-substitutes-388936">Considering leaving WhatsApp? Here are a few apps that can be used as substitutes</a>

This is not the only feature that Zuckerberg is introducing in the messaging app. An update of WhatsApp will bring in 'multi device support'. This feature has been in testing for the past few months, and a public beta version for the same will be rolled out soon.

In this feature, several devices will be able to connect to one's WhatsApp, even if there is no active internet connection on the main device. However, only four devices will be able to connect to the same account at a time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/whatsapp-rolls-out-stickers-to-spread-covid-19-vaccine-awareness-check-out-details-376095" hreflang="en">WhatsApp rolls out stickers to spread COVID-19 vaccine awareness: Check out details</a>

"It's been a big technical challenge to get all your messages and content to sync properly across devices even when your phone battery dies, but we’ve solved this and we're looking forward to getting it out soon," Zuckerberg said while explaining the aim behind the feature.

Another update will be an advanced version of ‘disappearing messages’ that was released last year. Through 'disappearing messages',&nbsp;uses could have their messages disappear/erased after a specified amount of time. The new feature will be 'disappearing mode'&nbsp; making all messages disappear from WhatsApp after seven days.

In order to stay up-to-date and in demand, WhatsApp is releasing new features. Just like Snapchat, WhatsApp is also coming up with a 'view once' feature. Very soon, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg confirmed.

In order to stay up-to-date and in demand, WhatsApp is releasing new features. Just like Snapchat, WhatsApp is also coming up with a 'view once' feature. Very soon, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg confirmed. In this mode, once a user sends photos and videos, the receiver will be able to open the multimedia only once, and upon opening the media, it will disappear from the chat. However, unlike Snapchat, users can take screenshots of the media in WhatsApp, without the sender being notified about it. Also read | Considering leaving WhatsApp? Here are a few apps that can be used as substitutes This is not the only feature that Zuckerberg is introducing in the messaging app. An update of WhatsApp will bring in 'multi device support'. This feature has been in testing for the past few months, and a public beta version for the same will be rolled out soon. In this feature, several devices will be able to connect to one's WhatsApp, even if there is no active internet connection on the main device. However, only four devices will be able to connect to the same account at a time. Also read | WhatsApp rolls out stickers to spread COVID-19 vaccine awareness: Check out details "It's been a big technical challenge to get all your messages and content to sync properly across devices even when your phone battery dies, but we’ve solved this and we're looking forward to getting it out soon," Zuckerberg said while explaining the aim behind the feature. Another update will be an advanced version of ‘disappearing messages’ that was released last year. Through 'disappearing messages', uses could have their messages disappear/erased after a specified amount of time. The new feature will be 'disappearing mode' making all messages disappear from WhatsApp after seven days.

'View once', multiple device connection, and more: Here are WhatsApp's new features

Google on Wednesday clarified that its search engine is not classified to be part of the new IT intermediary guidelines 2021, urging the Delhi High Court to set aside an order that puts Google Search as part of the new IT rules. 
 
The single judge order on April 20 came in a case where a woman`s images were uploaded on a pornographic website and despite court orders, the objectionable content could not be removed in entirety from the internet.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/whatsapp-goes-to-court-over-indian-governments-new-it-rules-387479">WhatsApp goes to court over Indian government's new IT rules</a> 
 
A Google spokesperson told IANS that Search engines are a reflection of the content and information that is available on the internet. 
 
"While we maintain a consistent policy over removal of objectionable content from search results, the Delhi High Court order has cast certain obligations that would wrongly classify Google search as a social media intermediary," a Google spokesperson told IANS.

"We`ve filed an appeal against this part of the order and look forward to explaining the steps we take to remove objectionable content from Google search results," the company spokesperson added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-new-it-rules-set-to-come-into-effect-will-us-big-tech-comply-387359">India's new IT rules set to come into effect, will US big tech comply?</a>

A bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh has issued notice to the Union government, Delhi government, Facebook, the pornographic site and Internet Service Providers Association of India, seeking their responses to Google`s plea by July 25. 
 
The Google spokesperson said that the "direction also requires proactively identifying and globally disabling access to any content which may be similar to the offending content, that may appear on any other websites/online platforms, or in any other context".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/seven-social-media-platforms-comply-with-some-it-rules-twitter-drags-feet-388125">Seven social media platforms comply with some IT rules; Twitter drags feet</a> 
 
The new rules notified in the gazette of India on February 25 under the Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules, 2021, came into effect from May 26. 
 
While Facebook, WhatsApp, Google, Telegram, LinkedIn etc have either fully or partially complied with the new IT rules, Twitter has reiterated to comply with the new IT intermediary guidelines in India as the Delhi High Court issued notice on a plea against the non-compliance by Twitter India and Twitter Inc.

Google on Wednesday clarified that its search engine is not classified to be part of the new IT intermediary guidelines 2021, urging the Delhi High Court to set aside an order that puts Google Search as part of the new IT rules.

Google on Wednesday clarified that its search engine is not classified to be part of the new IT intermediary guidelines 2021, urging the Delhi High Court to set aside an order that puts Google Search as part of the new IT rules. The single judge order on April 20 came in a case where a woman`s images were uploaded on a pornographic website and despite court orders, the objectionable content could not be removed in entirety from the internet. Also Read | WhatsApp goes to court over Indian government's new IT rules A Google spokesperson told IANS that Search engines are a reflection of the content and information that is available on the internet. "While we maintain a consistent policy over removal of objectionable content from search results, the Delhi High Court order has cast certain obligations that would wrongly classify Google search as a social media intermediary," a Google spokesperson told IANS. "We`ve filed an appeal against this part of the order and look forward to explaining the steps we take to remove objectionable content from Google search results," the company spokesperson added. Also Read | India's new IT rules set to come into effect, will US big tech comply? A bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh has issued notice to the Union government, Delhi government, Facebook, the pornographic site and Internet Service Providers Association of India, seeking their responses to Google`s plea by July 25. The Google spokesperson said that the "direction also requires proactively identifying and globally disabling access to any content which may be similar to the offending content, that may appear on any other websites/online platforms, or in any other context". Also Read | Seven social media platforms comply with some IT rules; Twitter drags feet The new rules notified in the gazette of India on February 25 under the Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules, 2021, came into effect from May 26. While Facebook, WhatsApp, Google, Telegram, LinkedIn etc have either fully or partially complied with the new IT rules, Twitter has reiterated to comply with the new IT intermediary guidelines in India as the Delhi High Court issued notice on a plea against the non-compliance by Twitter India and Twitter Inc.

Google says its search engine not classified as part of new IT rules in India

Indian users have expressed concern over the planned updates in the privacy policy of WhatsApp, which is owned by Facebook. The deadline for the update and policy implementation has gone, yet the question&nbsp;remains: “What is a good WhatsApp alternative?”

Netizens are posing this question after WhatsApp revised its privacy conditions on January 6, reserving the ability to share user data, including location and phone number, with its partners.

There is a variety of social messaging apps to choose from, such as Google Hangouts, Google Chats, Telegram and Signal.&nbsp;

Telegram and Signal are the two most popular solutions that many people are considering, with online searches for them on the rise in the past few days.&nbsp;

Here is what you should know about the top three alternatives of Whatsapp:&nbsp;

Telegram:&nbsp;

Telegram began as a messaging application in 2013, but the platform has evolved significantly since then. There are currently a variety of functions and channels available in the app. Telegram is gaining a large number of new users, who can send up to 1.5GB of files.&nbsp;They can add up to 200,000 users in a group. &nbsp;It is compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, Windows NT, macOS and Linux-based operating systems.

Signal

Signal is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. The Signal Private Messenger app, unlike WhatsApp, is also accessible on the iPad. Users can download it on Windows, Linux and Mac, much like WhatsApp.

Signal has seen a jump in worldwide downloads in recent weeks.&nbsp;

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, has also advised people to "use Signal." Thanks to his recommendation, Signal has surpassed WhatsApp as the most popular free app on the App Store in India, Germany, France, Austria, Finland, Hong Kong and Switzerland.&nbsp;

Viber

Users of Viber, which is nearly as old as WhatsApp,&nbsp;will get unlimited calls, unlimited texting, and high-quality video chat.

Viber Messenger's group video call function now accommodates even more people.&nbsp;

However, the shift isn't limited to mobile. Viber now allows up to 30 people to participate in a single video conversation, regardless of the platform they are using.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian users have expressed concern over the planned updates in the privacy policy of WhatsApp, which is owned by Facebook. The deadline for the update and policy implementation has gone, yet the question remains: “What is a good WhatsApp alternative?

Indian users have expressed concern over the planned updates in the privacy policy of WhatsApp, which is owned by Facebook. The deadline for the update and policy implementation has gone, yet the question remains: “What is a good WhatsApp alternative?” Netizens are posing this question after WhatsApp revised its privacy conditions on January 6, reserving the ability to share user data, including location and phone number, with its partners. There is a variety of social messaging apps to choose from, such as Google Hangouts, Google Chats, Telegram and Signal. Telegram and Signal are the two most popular solutions that many people are considering, with online searches for them on the rise in the past few days. Here is what you should know about the top three alternatives of Whatsapp: Telegram: Telegram began as a messaging application in 2013, but the platform has evolved significantly since then. There are currently a variety of functions and channels available in the app. Telegram is gaining a large number of new users, who can send up to 1.5GB of files. They can add up to 200,000 users in a group. It is compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, Windows NT, macOS and Linux-based operating systems. Signal Signal is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. The Signal Private Messenger app, unlike WhatsApp, is also accessible on the iPad. Users can download it on Windows, Linux and Mac, much like WhatsApp. Signal has seen a jump in worldwide downloads in recent weeks. Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, has also advised people to "use Signal." Thanks to his recommendation, Signal has surpassed WhatsApp as the most popular free app on the App Store in India, Germany, France, Austria, Finland, Hong Kong and Switzerland. Viber Users of Viber, which is nearly as old as WhatsApp, will get unlimited calls, unlimited texting, and high-quality video chat. Viber Messenger's group video call function now accommodates even more people. However, the shift isn't limited to mobile. Viber now allows up to 30 people to participate in a single video conversation, regardless of the platform they are using. (With inputs from agencies)

Considering leaving WhatsApp? Here are a few apps that can be used as substitutes

Seven&nbsp;social media platforms have complied with some of the rules under the new IT rules that came into effect earlier this week.&nbsp;

Koo, Sharechat, Telegram, LinkedIn, Google, Facebook, WhatsApp&nbsp;have shared the list of&nbsp;their Chief Compliance Officer, Nodal Contact Person, and Grievance Officer as envisaged under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 with India's&nbsp;Information Technology(IT)&nbsp;ministry. IT ministry is the main nodal ministry that deals with the matter.&nbsp;

The rules were notified in February and three-month time period was given to social media platforms to implement them. Other key issues like traceability remain, that is the first origin of any message, the details of which have to be shared with the authorities under the new rules.

Whatsapp has gone to the Delhi High Court over that rule, saying that it will mean a breach of the fundamental right to privacy and violates its end-to-end encryption. The Indian government has dismissed that saying no fundamental right is absolute and the rules are "reasonable restrictions"&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Twitter is yet to follow the rule and told the Indian government that it is nominating a lawyer as its&nbsp;Nodal Contact Person and Grievance Officer. According to the rules, the officers should be&nbsp;employees of the company and residents in India. Interestingly, Twitter sent the communication to the Indian govt late last night, a day which saw the Indian govt slamming twitter over non-implementation of new IT rules.&nbsp;

The Indian govt statement said, "Twitter needs to stop beating around the bush and comply with the laws of the land" and reminded it that". The statement added, "&nbsp;Law making and policy formulations is the sole prerogative of the sovereign and Twitter is just a social media platform and it has no locus in dictating what India’s legal policy framework should be."

Also, Twitter is yet to send out the&nbsp;details of the Chief Compliance Officer to the government as mentioned in the IT rules.&nbsp;

Seven social media platforms have complied with some of the rules under the new IT rules that came into effect earlier this week. Koo, Sharechat, Telegram, LinkedIn, Google, Facebook, WhatsApp have shared the list of their Chief Compliance Officer, Nodal Contact Person, and Grievance Officer as envisaged under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 with India's Information Technology(IT) ministry.

Seven social media platforms have complied with some of the rules under the new IT rules that came into effect earlier this week. Koo, Sharechat, Telegram, LinkedIn, Google, Facebook, WhatsApp have shared the list of their Chief Compliance Officer, Nodal Contact Person, and Grievance Officer as envisaged under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 with India's Information Technology(IT) ministry. IT ministry is the main nodal ministry that deals with the matter. The rules were notified in February and three-month time period was given to social media platforms to implement them. Other key issues like traceability remain, that is the first origin of any message, the details of which have to be shared with the authorities under the new rules. Whatsapp has gone to the Delhi High Court over that rule, saying that it will mean a breach of the fundamental right to privacy and violates its end-to-end encryption. The Indian government has dismissed that saying no fundamental right is absolute and the rules are "reasonable restrictions" Meanwhile, Twitter is yet to follow the rule and told the Indian government that it is nominating a lawyer as its Nodal Contact Person and Grievance Officer. According to the rules, the officers should be employees of the company and residents in India. Interestingly, Twitter sent the communication to the Indian govt late last night, a day which saw the Indian govt slamming twitter over non-implementation of new IT rules. The Indian govt statement said, "Twitter needs to stop beating around the bush and comply with the laws of the land" and reminded it that". The statement added, " Law making and policy formulations is the sole prerogative of the sovereign and Twitter is just a social media platform and it has no locus in dictating what India’s legal policy framework should be." Also, Twitter is yet to send out the details of the Chief Compliance Officer to the government as mentioned in the IT rules.

Seven social media platforms comply with some IT rules; Twitter drags feet

WhatsApp is taking the Indian government to court. The company claims the new media code will compel it to "break privacy protections". India says the right to privacy is "fundamental, but not absolute". Palki Sharma tells you why the world is watching this lawsuit.

Gravitas: Why WhatsApp has sued the Indian government

Now, the trouble mounted for Facebook-owned instant messaging application WhatsApp in South America now. Colombia's top consumer protection watchdog on Wednesday ordered messaging application WhatsApp to take measures to protect users' personal data, saying it violated more than half of the rules governing such information.

World Business Watch: Colombia orders WhatsApp to comply with data protection

Facebook-owned instant messaging application WhatsApp on Wednesday challenged the Indian government in the Delhi High Court over the traceability clause in the new IT Rule 2021. The Center said that it cannot be denied in cases of mob lynching and riots, same WhatsApp messages are circulated and recirculated.

Indian Govt amidst legal battle over privacy says, "WhatsApp users in India will not be affected"

WhatsApp has filed a legal complaint in Delhi High Court against the Indian government seeking to block regulations coming into force on Wednesday that experts say would compel the California-based Facebook unit to break privacy protections.

WhatsApp challenges Indian government's new it rules in Delhi High Court

On the day the Indian government's new rules for social media come into effect, it has emerged that WhatsApp has gone to Delhi High Court against them, citing violation of privacy.

The rules, the information technology (intermediary guidelines and digital media ethics code rules), 2021 which were notified on February 25&nbsp;call for new compliances, like traceability of messages to find&nbsp;the first originator of a message.

WhatsApp in its case has highlighted that this means&nbsp;going through messages which will be violative of its end-to-end encryption, which means messages can't be read except between two&nbsp;users or in a group.

In response to a question from WION, a WhatsApp spokesperson said, "Requiring messaging apps to “trace” chats is the equivalent of asking us to keep a fingerprint of every single message sent on WhatsApp, which would break end-to-end encryption and fundamentally undermines people's right to privacy."&nbsp;

"We will also continue to engage with the government of India on practical solutions aimed at keeping people safe, including responding to valid legal requests for the information available to us," the spokesman added.

No social media company&nbsp;barring Indian social media Koo has implemented these rules.

Non-compliance with&nbsp;the&nbsp;rules could attract criminal charges.

A three&nbsp;month period was given to all social media apps and websites to implement these rules.&nbsp;The new compliances require the appointment of chief compliance officers, resident grievance officer, active monitoring of the harmful content, monthly compliance report, disabling access to objectionable information.

Interestingly,&nbsp;the development comes even as WhatsApp has been under fire over its new privacy policy.

Under the policy, certain data like financial transactions done via WhatsApp can be shared with its parent company Facebook.

While there is no breaking of&nbsp;end-to-end encryption under it,&nbsp;in the past users risked losing right over an account if not given consent for the privacy policy. This has been relaxed now to a certain extent.

There have been increased run-ins between the Indian government and social media apps like Twitter over data and recent&nbsp;labelling of tweets by members of ruling BJP as "manipulated media".

Earlier in the week, Delhi Police had gone to the offices of Twitter India to serve them notice over the "toolkit incident" under which the social media giant had labelled the tweets as "manipulated".

On the day the Indian government's new rules for social media come into effect, it has emerged that WhatsApp has gone to Delhi High Court against them, citing violation of privacy.

On the day the Indian government's new rules for social media come into effect, it has emerged that WhatsApp has gone to Delhi High Court against them, citing violation of privacy. The rules, the information technology (intermediary guidelines and digital media ethics code rules), 2021 which were notified on February 25 call for new compliances, like traceability of messages to find the first originator of a message. WhatsApp in its case has highlighted that this means going through messages which will be violative of its end-to-end encryption, which means messages can't be read except between two users or in a group. In response to a question from WION, a WhatsApp spokesperson said, "Requiring messaging apps to “trace” chats is the equivalent of asking us to keep a fingerprint of every single message sent on WhatsApp, which would break end-to-end encryption and fundamentally undermines people's right to privacy." "We will also continue to engage with the government of India on practical solutions aimed at keeping people safe, including responding to valid legal requests for the information available to us," the spokesman added. No social media company barring Indian social media Koo has implemented these rules. Non-compliance with the rules could attract criminal charges. A three month period was given to all social media apps and websites to implement these rules. The new compliances require the appointment of chief compliance officers, resident grievance officer, active monitoring of the harmful content, monthly compliance report, disabling access to objectionable information. Interestingly, the development comes even as WhatsApp has been under fire over its new privacy policy. Under the policy, certain data like financial transactions done via WhatsApp can be shared with its parent company Facebook. While there is no breaking of end-to-end encryption under it, in the past users risked losing right over an account if not given consent for the privacy policy. This has been relaxed now to a certain extent. There have been increased run-ins between the Indian government and social media apps like Twitter over data and recent labelling of tweets by members of ruling BJP as "manipulated media". Earlier in the week, Delhi Police had gone to the offices of Twitter India to serve them notice over the "toolkit incident" under which the social media giant had labelled the tweets as "manipulated".

WhatsApp goes to court over Indian government's new IT rules

On May 19, the Indian government gave a final warning to WhatsApp.

Reports say India's ministry for Information technology has sent a letter to the company, which says that WhatsApp must withdraw the new policy.

“In fulfilment of its sovereign responsibility to protect the rights and interests of Indian citizens, the government of India will consider various options available to it under laws in India,” the letter reads.

The company has been given seven days to respond else the Indian government says it will "consider various options available to it" under the Indian law. Earlier this month, WhatsApp relaxed its May 15 deadline to accept the new terms. Before that, the company also said that those who don't accept will lose functionality. Now, WhatsApp has tweaked its FAQs. It has given more time for users to accept the new rules.

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The latest version says: “No one will have their accounts deleted or lose functionality of WhatsApp on May 15 because of this update".

Around the world, there has been a massive pushback against WhatsApp's new privacy policy. At least 11 countries have asked Facebook, the company that owns WhatsApp to stop the data sharing policy. These countries are Germany, Ireland, United Kingdom, Brazil, United States, South Africa, Argentina, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/delhi-hc-issues-notice-on-facebook-whatsapp-pleas-challenging-order-on-new-privacy-policy-383212" hreflang="en">Delhi HC issues notice on Facebook, WhatsApp pleas challenging order on new privacy policy</a>

The bone of contention is the relationship between Facebook and WhatsApp and the kind of data the parent company can take from the application. The new policy dictates the rules on how users will interact with businesses on WhatsApp. WhatsApp maintains that all personal conversations will remain private. But in an earlier post on its website, WhatsApp had shared details about the kind of data it can share with Facebook.

This includes your name, phone number, information about your phone - the make and model and the company that made the phone, your IP address and any payments and financial transactions you made over WhatsApp. These rules don't apply in Europe because these countries have specific laws against this kind of data sharing.

Increasingly, data sharing is becoming worrying for governments around the world. In the US, critics of Facebook are calling it a monopoly. Lawmakers argue that the company is too powerful and should be broken up. India is conducting an investigation of its own. Earlier this year, the Competition Commission of India launched a probe into WhatsApp.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/whatsapp-delays-enforcing-new-privacy-terms-after-germany-halts-data-sharing-384614" hreflang="en">WhatsApp delays enforcing new privacy terms after Germany halts data sharing</a>

Referring specifically to the privacy policy, the Indian competition watchdog said WhatsApp's "take it or leave it policy" merits a detailed investigation. WhatsApp challenged this in the Delhi High Court but the judge refused to quash the probe.

This means WhatsApp and Facebook will face challenging times ahead and the privacy policy is just the beginning of the scrutiny.

On May 19, the Indian government gave a final warning to WhatsApp. Reports say India's ministry for Information technology has sent a letter to the company, which says that WhatsApp must withdraw the new policy.

On May 19, the Indian government gave a final warning to WhatsApp. Reports say India's ministry for Information technology has sent a letter to the company, which says that WhatsApp must withdraw the new policy. “In fulfilment of its sovereign responsibility to protect the rights and interests of Indian citizens, the government of India will consider various options available to it under laws in India,” the letter reads. The company has been given seven days to respond else the Indian government says it will "consider various options available to it" under the Indian law. Earlier this month, WhatsApp relaxed its May 15 deadline to accept the new terms. Before that, the company also said that those who don't accept will lose functionality. Now, WhatsApp has tweaked its FAQs. It has given more time for users to accept the new rules. The latest version says: “No one will have their accounts deleted or lose functionality of WhatsApp on May 15 because of this update". Around the world, there has been a massive pushback against WhatsApp's new privacy policy. At least 11 countries have asked Facebook, the company that owns WhatsApp to stop the data sharing policy. These countries are Germany, Ireland, United Kingdom, Brazil, United States, South Africa, Argentina, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Also read: Delhi HC issues notice on Facebook, WhatsApp pleas challenging order on new privacy policy The bone of contention is the relationship between Facebook and WhatsApp and the kind of data the parent company can take from the application. The new policy dictates the rules on how users will interact with businesses on WhatsApp. WhatsApp maintains that all personal conversations will remain private. But in an earlier post on its website, WhatsApp had shared details about the kind of data it can share with Facebook. This includes your name, phone number, information about your phone - the make and model and the company that made the phone, your IP address and any payments and financial transactions you made over WhatsApp. These rules don't apply in Europe because these countries have specific laws against this kind of data sharing. Increasingly, data sharing is becoming worrying for governments around the world. In the US, critics of Facebook are calling it a monopoly. Lawmakers argue that the company is too powerful and should be broken up. India is conducting an investigation of its own. Earlier this year, the Competition Commission of India launched a probe into WhatsApp. Also read: WhatsApp delays enforcing new privacy terms after Germany halts data sharing Referring specifically to the privacy policy, the Indian competition watchdog said WhatsApp's "take it or leave it policy" merits a detailed investigation. WhatsApp challenged this in the Delhi High Court but the judge refused to quash the probe. This means WhatsApp and Facebook will face challenging times ahead and the privacy policy is just the beginning of the scrutiny.

India takes on WhatsApp with fresh warning against new data policy

India has asked WhatsApp to withdraw its new privacy policy. Reports say the company has been given 7 days to respond. Otherwise, WhatsApp could face legal action. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why WhatsApp is facing scrutiny.

Gravitas: India tells WhatsApp to withdraw its new privacy policy

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