Viral message exposed via WhatsApp monitoring

Islamabad:

A message that makes the rounds on social media and WhatsApp groups has ringing alarm bells, which indicates that the authorities closely observe on WhatsApp calls and groups -closely observed that the PTA quickly shot down.

The viral contribution, which is strongly proven in terms of speculation and lighting, claims that a new “data protection mode” has been introduced so that the officials can track the WhatsApp activity of all Pakistan.

Post also warns the users of sharing politically or religiously sensitive content and claims that violations could be arrested without warning.

“From midnight this evening, all groups will be placed in data protection mode, since new communication rules for WhatsApp and telephone calls are enforced in Pakistan.

In the coming days, the strict monitoring of groups and news will take place, “the message says.

The message contains alarming claims about extensive surveillance measures.

It is said that all telephone calls are recorded and saved, while social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook and X are monitored.

It is also proposed that the devices of the users will be connected to government systems.

According to the message, the discussion of political or religious online issues can lead to an arrest without arrest warrant. It asks the individuals to change caution and inform their family, friends and acquaintances about these alleged monitoring efforts.

However, a fact check showed that the Pakistani Telecommunications Authority (PTA) categorically refused such instructions or played a role in monitoring WhatsApp calls or messages.

Due to the end-to-end encryption of WhatsApp (E2EE), mass surveillance of private conversations is technically impossible.

WhatsApp uses E2EE technology (end-to-end encryption), which means that only the sender and recipient can read messages. Even WhatsApp itself cannot access these conversations.

Digital Rights Expert Nighhat Dad of the Digital Rights Foundation confirmed that the encryption prevents the Pakistani authorities from making a great surveillance of WhatsApp communication.

While governments cannot read encrypted messages, they can record metadata – an institute about who they communicate with, the duration of the conversations, locations (if GPS is activated) and group participation.

However, this form of surveillance is more aimed at certain people than the general public.

Governments can use spyware such as Pegasus or malware to monitor individuals. However, these tools are not effective for great surveillance.

The claim that Pakistan has issued new laws to monitor all WhatsApp groups and calls is completely wrong.

However, the authorities can continue to pursue metadata and carry out targeted monitoring of certain interested people.

Experts recommend that users protect their digital privacy by avoiding suspicious links, not authorized apps and sensitive information online.

While mass surveillance is unlikely, the targeted monitoring of individuals remains an option.