Internet Freedom FoundationFeb 15, 2024

⚠️STATEMENT:

Reportedly, the E2EE email service @ProtonMail has received communication from @GoI_MeitY regarding a potential block under Section 69-A of the IT Act, 2000, at the request of the Tamil Nadu police over a hoax bomb threat sent to private schools in Chennai. 1/6

#WhatTheBlock
https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/it-ministry-looks-to-block-proton-mail-on-request-of-tamil-nadu-police-101707938167006.html

IT ministry looks to block Proton Mail on request of Tamil Nadu police

The IT ministry has decided to issue an order blocking end-to-end encrypted email service Proton Mail on Wednesday at the request of the Tamil Nadu police over a hoax bomb threat sent to at least thirteen private schools in Chennai on February 8, HT has learnt. | Latest News India

Hindustan Times
Show threadInternet Freedom FoundationFeb 15, 2024
Blanket bans on E2EE platforms disproportionately impact citizens' fundamental rights to freedom of speech and expression and privacy, by obstructing access to vital secure communication channels crucial for both personal and professional interactions in today's digital landscape. 2/6
Show threadInternet Freedom FoundationFeb 15, 2024
The online content blocking regime is shrouded in opacity, with @GoI_MeitY frequently invoking the confidentiality clause under Rule 16 of the 2009 Blocking Rules to withhold reasons or copies of blocking orders. 3/6
Show threadInternet Freedom FoundationFeb 15, 2024
The absence of transparency in this process raises significant concerns regarding accountability and due process in the regulation of online content. 4/6
Show threadInternet Freedom Foundation
The unavailability of reasoned blocking orders hampers the ability of website owners and affected users to effectively challenge the blocking before an appropriate forum. 5/6
Feb 15, 2024 at 11:46amWeb
Show threadInternet Freedom FoundationFeb 15, 2024
At this stage, it is yet to be determined if a blocking order for the blocking of @ProtonMail has been issued or not. We will definitely be filing RTI requests to find out more. 6/6