Amid rising threats from cybercriminals and terrorist organizations misusing encrypted communication platforms, the Maharashtra Cyber Department has written to the Central Government requesting a ban on ProtonMail and Wikipedia in India if they fail to cooperate with ongoing investigations.
Official sources revealed that ProtonMail, a Switzerland-based encrypted email service, is allegedly being used by terrorists to send threatening emails and by cyber fraudsters to exploit citizens. Despite repeated requests from Indian authorities for user data in relation to criminal cases, the company has refused to cooperate, severely hampering investigation efforts.
The Cyber Department expressed similar concerns regarding Wikipedia, which it accused of publishing objectionable and false content, including misinformation related to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Despite five formal letters requesting information, Wikipedia has not responded, prompting the department to issue a formal summons demanding either the removal of content or submission of evidence.
Additional Director General of Police Yashasvi Yadav stated that if the platforms continue to remain uncooperative, the government may be compelled to suspend their services in India. He emphasized that safeguarding national security and public order must take precedence over platform immunity or international jurisdiction.
