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Govt not seeking message decryption; wants location, identity of sender of provocative messages on WhatsApp: IT Minister

The government has said that it has not sought decryption of WhatsApp messages but instead wants the location and identity of those misusing the platform to spread the fake news that provokes violence.

Union IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, after meeting WhatsApp Vice President Chris Daniels, asserted that the institutional integrity of the platform is maintained ahead of elections.

On the issue of traceability, Mr Prasad emphasised that when they talk of traceability they insist on location and identification of the sender of WhatsApp messages which lead to provocation of violence and other serious crimes.

The minister said that he has been assured by the WhatsApp leadership team that they will look into the matter and revert.

In an emailed response WhatsApp spokesperson appreciated that the Government confirmed its support for encryption and the privacy of WhatsApp users.

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