Potential for spread of terror through social media higher than ever: Govt

According to Union Minister Nityanand Rai, the threat of terrorism spreading through the use of social media is greater than ever, endangering the sovereignty and integrity of the nation.

Additionally, he said that cyberspace is completely anonymous, borderless, and virtual.

“With a borderless cyberspace mixed with the capability of instant contact and anonymity, the potential for propagating terror through the use of social media is higher than ever, posing a threat to the sovereignty and integrity of the country,” he said in response to a query.

According to the state minister for the home, international terrorist organisations and some hostile foreign organisations have been working to radicalise people and spread terrorism through the use of social media platforms, the internet, and other means in India.

“The law enforcement agencies closely monitor actions on social media platforms and take appropriate action under the law.” In addition, the government blocks illegal and harmful online content, including social media accounts, by Section 69A of the Information Technology Act 2000, he added.

According to Rai, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act 2008 was changed in 2019 to add Section 66F of the Information Technology Act, 2000, to its Schedule to more effectively and quickly investigate and prosecute offences related to cyber terrorism.