The Indian Government has instructed Google Play Store and Apple’s iOS App Store in India to remove 14 mobile applications as a measure to address national security concerns.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has immediately banned these apps due to their lack of active representatives in India, which hampers the government’s ability to obtain necessary information.
The banned apps include Crypviser, Enigma, Safeswiss, Wickrme, Mediafire, Briar, BChat, Nandbox, Conion, IMO, Element, Second line, Zangi, and Threema. These apps have received a significant number of downloads, ranging from 10,000 to over 1 billion.
While some apps are still available on the platforms, developers are expected to proactively comply with the ban by taking appropriate actions.