Don't share sensitive info on FB, WhatsApp: MHA to forces

The directive came after it was detected that troops of a paramilitary force circulated photos of some active UAVs from their operational base in Chhattisgarh

The Union Home Ministry has directed central paramilitary forces like CRPF and BSF to restrain their personnel from sharing "sensitive" information and photos on social media forums like WhatsApp and Facebook.

The latest directive from the ministry came after it was detected that the troops of a paramilitary force circulated photos of some active Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) from their operational base in the Naxal-affected areas of Chhattisgarh.

A large of fleet of UAVs and other logistics of the National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO) have recently been moved into the state to aid security forces in undertaking "quality" anti-Naxal operations.

Sources said central intelligence agencies detected it and reported to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), which pulled up the force and its commanders on the ground for the "irresponsible" security breach.

In a stern communication sent to all central paramilitary forces like CISF, CRPF, BSF, ITBP, SSB, NSG and Assam rifles, the Ministry has asked them to sensitise and direct their personnel that they do not share sensitive information on social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, chat groups and any other form of mass media.

"..Sharing of photographs or details of sensitive projects and prohibited places by the Central Armed Police Forces deployed for the security of vital installations and sensitive places is a serious matter having serious implications and as such sharing of such information at social media networks and general public should be discouraged at all levels," the directive, accessed by PTI, said.

Sources privy to the development said the forces have also been asked to ensure that while sharing of general information with known people and family is not prohibited, it should be made sure that all types of sensitive or classified information is not shared with even these kind of connections.