Government orders WhatsApp on digital scam, device ID will be blocked, these 5 safety features will keep users safe

The central government has taken strict steps to deal with digital arrest scams. In a high-level Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC) meeting, the government has asked messaging app WhatsApp to block the device IDs which are being used in these scams. With this, fraudsters will not be able to create new accounts again and again. Let us tell you that digital arrest is a sophisticated cyber fraud. Scammers pretend to be police, CBI, ED or other law enforcement officials.

They scare people on video calls that they are involved in some serious crime. Then they ask to transfer the money so that they can avoid “arrest”. Through screen sharing and mule accounts, money is quickly transferred to multiple banks and states, making it difficult to trace. According to the report of Indian Express, 1.23 lakh such cases were registered in 2024, in which a total of Rs 1,935 crore was defrauded. This is almost three times more than in 2022. Overall, these scams have caused a loss of approximately Rs 3,000 crore. The Supreme Court itself had taken cognizance in October 2025 and expressed serious concern over this increasing threat.

High-level committee meeting

The third meeting of the IDC constituted by the Union Home Ministry was held in December 2025. This meeting lasted for three hours. WhatsApp representatives gave detailed information on their detection system, actions and safeguards. The committee made several suggestions, which WhatsApp has promised to implement. The government has given many suggestions to WhatsApp.

Blocking Device ID

These suggestions bring a mechanism to identify and block device IDs used in digital arrest cases. For this, submit a separate proposal in 45 days.

Safety Features

Bring features found in apps like Skype, like more caller information, warning signals on suspicious accounts, and better detection of scam networks. Asked to submit proposal in 30 days.

block bad files

Strengthen technical mechanisms to detect and block rogue APKs and similar content. Develop safeguards to identify and prevent lengthy scam calls. Offer within a month.

User Data Retention

Keep the data of deleted accounts for at least 180 days, as is mandatory in the IT Rules 2021.

Increasing AI and Machine Learning

Expand AI/ML systems to detect impersonation, misuse of official logos, and AI-generated content. Give progress updates from time to time.

SIM binding

Pay attention to the instructions of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) dated November 2025 and follow them. Link WhatsApp to the active SIM only to prevent anonymous or multi-device use. Implement in 4-6 months and submit Action Taken Report (ATR) by March end.

cooperation in investigation

Respond in a timely manner to flagged signals on fraud networks, police impersonation and misuse of government symbols. Follow the new IT rules for labeling synthetic content.

Necessary steps to increase user security

WhatsApp has given many commitments. The company is already installing police logo detection and media matching system, so that accounts having profile photos with logos like Delhi Police, Mumbai Police, CBI can be removed. These steps are to increase user security, help investigative agencies and ensure compliance with national security and data protection rules. The Home Ministry and Meta (parent company of WhatsApp) did not respond to requests for comment. A fraud of Rs 11.6 crore took place in January-February 2026 alone. In such a situation, it is important for people to remain alert. Keep in mind that do not transfer money on any “police” call. In case of doubt, immediately call the cyber crime helpline 1930 and give information.