8 months ago
Indian Army Updates Social Media Policy
The Indian Army has updated its rules about using social media.
Now, soldiers can only look at posts on Instagram, YouTube, X, and Quora and can't like, comment, or share anything.
They can tell their superiors if they see fake or misleading information.
This helps them stay informed while keeping important information safe.
Before, there were very strict rules, and soldiers weren't allowed to use many social media apps.
The army chief said smartphones are important for soldiers to stay connected with their families, but they need to be careful about what they do online.
The army has its own official social media accounts that share important news, like during a recent operation.
Indian Army allows personnel to use Instagram, YouTube, X, and Quora for viewing only, no posting, liking, or commenting.
Soldiers can flag fake or misleading posts to senior officers.
Previous strict rules were in place to prevent information leaks and honey traps.
Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi acknowledges the importance of smartphones for soldiers' personal connections.
Army personnel can use other platforms like Skype, WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal for limited unclassified information exchange under strict rules.
- Who
- Indian Army personnel, including soldiers and officers
- What
- New policy allowing Instagram, YouTube, X, and Quora for viewing only, no posting
- Where
- All army units and departments in India
- When
- Policy change recently implemented, with previous restrictions in 2020
- Why
- To allow information gathering and awareness while maintaining security
Security Focus
Modernization Advocates
Social Media Use
Security Focus
Strict controls are necessary to prevent information leaks and honey traps.
Modernization Advocates
Allowing limited access helps soldiers stay informed and connected.
User Engagement
Security Focus
No posting or commenting to avoid accidental disclosures.
Modernization Advocates
Passive monitoring can help gather useful information.
Key facts
- Platforms Allowed
- Instagram, YouTube, X, Quora (viewing only), Skype, WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal (limited use), LinkedIn (resume uploads)
- Posting Allowed
- No
- Flagging Allowed
- Yes (for fake/misleading posts)
- Security Concern
- Preventing information leaks and honey traps
- Previous Ban
- Complete ban until 2019, then restricted use
- Apps Deleted
- 89 apps in 2020, including Facebook, X, and Instagram
- Official Army Handles
- Yes, used for reliable information during operations
Timeline
Army clamps down on social media after deepfake leader videos surface.
Then, it eases restrictions, allowing soldiers to view Instagram posts.
But engagement and other apps remain off-limits, balancing info access and security.
Quotes
Army official
An official from the Indian Army
“Only passive participation to obtain knowledge/ info has been permitted (on certain apps). Uploading of user-generated content/ messages, etc, are not allowed.”
telegraphindia.com
“For apps like Skype, WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal, exchanges of unclassified information of a general nature/ content have been permitted.”
telegraphindia.com
Sources
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Army Allows Personnel To Use Instagram For Viewing, Not Posting: Sources
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