Archive · 30 May 2025
Karnataka High Court Orders Proton Mail Block Over Abuse Allegations
A court in India has told the government to block Proton Mail because the company did not help identify users who were accused of harassing a woman online.
The court said it couldn't ignore the problem of platforms that don't protect people's privacy.
Proton Mail is a secure email service, but the court found its lack of cooperation troubling.
The government needs to follow certain steps before blocking the site.
The court's decision came after a company complained about abusive emails from anonymous Proton Mail accounts.
Swiss authorities, where Proton Mail is based, have been in contact with the Indian government regarding the situation.
Karnataka High Court ordered the Union government to block Proton Mail in India.
The order was prompted by a complaint against Proton's refusal to identify users who sexually harassed a woman on the platform.
The court stated that it could not remain silent when faced with the "menace" of platforms undermining women's privacy.
The Union government did not object to the court's right to block Proton Mail but raised concerns about diplomatic procedures.
Proton Mail is still accessible in India as of May 29, 2025, despite the order.
- Who
- Karnataka High Court, Union government, Proton Mail (Proton AG)
- What
- The Karnataka High Court ordered the blocking of Proton Mail in India due to its alleged failure to cooperate in identifying users involved in digital sexual abuse.
- When
- The full judgement was released on May 29, 2025; the order was issued last month (April 2025).
- Where
- Karnataka, India
- Why
- Due to the platform's alleged inaction and opacity in addressing digital sexual abuse.
Proponents
Opponents
Blocking of Proton Mail
Proponents
Some support blocking Proton Mail to curb online abuse.
Opponents
Proton Mail may oppose blocking as it affects user privacy and freedom of expression, potentially hindering investigations.
- Court
- Karnataka High Court
- Subject
- Blocking of Proton Mail
- Reason
- Failure to cooperate with investigations of digital sexual abuse
- Affected
- Proton Mail users in India
- Legal Basis
- Section 69A of the Information Technology (Amendment) Act, 2008