Amid growing concerns over the misuse of secure communication platforms by terrorist organisations and cybercriminals, the Maharashtra Cyber Department has written to the Central Government urging a ban on ProtonMail and Wikipedia in India if they fail to cooperate with investigations.
According to official sources, ProtonMail is reportedly being used by terrorists to send threatening emails. In addition, several cyber fraudsters are exploiting the platform’s secure features to target innocent citizens. Despite multiple requests for user data related to criminal activities, the ProtonMail administration has refused to cooperate, thereby hindering investigations.
Sources in the cyber police revealed that ProtonMail is headquartered in Switzerland and has a history of non-cooperation with investigative agencies. While many criminals are found using the service, the company allegedly refuses to share crucial information with Indian authorities.
Objectionable Content on Wikipedia Sparks Action
In a parallel development, the Cyber Department has also taken strong objection to controversial and objectionable content published on Wikipedia related to prominent personalities from Maharashtra. A criminal case has already been registered in the matter.
Despite sending five official letters seeking information necessary for the investigation, Wikipedia has not responded. The department has now issued a formal summons, demanding either the removal of objectionable content or submission of relevant evidence.
Authorities have warned that non-cooperation from Wikipedia may lead to the suspension of its services in India. Officials maintained that ensuring national security and maintaining law and order necessitates holding such online platforms accountable.
Speaking to the media, Maharashtra Cyber Department's Additional Director General (ADG) Yashasvi Yadav said, “Recently, misinformation related to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was published on Wikipedia. We sent several communications to Wikipedia officials, but did not receive the necessary cooperation.”