Our Statement on the WhatsApp Surveillance Issue

The use of sophisticated surveillance technology by governments violates basic human rights of privacy and free speech on the Internet. Vulnerable groups including journalists, minorities and lawyers rely on end-to-end encryption technology, like the one offered by WhatsApp, to remain secure online. Targeting journalists, academics and civil society by using surveillance technology, compromises constitutional and democratic principles on which our nation is built. Governments should refrain from using such methods which affect the security infrastructure the Internet is built on. At SFLC.in we've always argued that the Indian government must introduce comprehensive surveillance reform law to protect the rights of citizens. A few years back, we wrote a report on surveillance in India highlighting some major issues. We also conduct Digital Security Trainings for vulnerable groups such as - journalists and minorities to spread awareness about digital security practices such as encryption over the web - emails, browsers and texting apps.

To support our work on fighting for privacy and security online, you may donate to us at - https://sflc.in/donate.