WhatsApp message claims the govt is monitoring your calls? Here is everything you should know
Follow UsPIB Fact Check has clarified that no such WhatsApp monitoring guidelines have been issued.
Claims about red or extra blue ticks indicating government action are completely misleading.
Check official sources and avoid suspicious links or APK files that could compromise your device.
WhatsApp is one of the most used messaging apps in India, and that popularity also makes it a favourite target for hoaxes. Many reported that they have recently received a message claiming that the government has rolled out new WhatsApp monitoring guidelines. The post warns users that all their personal calls and messages made across WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram will be tracked. Not only that but the message also claims that the users can also see red checkmarks when officials are reading your messages or preparing legal action against you. Here’s everything you need to know about WhatsApp messages claiming the govt is monitoring and how to stay safe.
SurveyWhat did the govt say?
The Press Information Bureau’s (PIB) Fact Check Unit recently addressed the message through its official X handle, clarifying that the claim circulating online is fake. The unit categorically stated that ‘The Government of India has NOT released any such guidelines. ‘It also urged users not to trust or share such messages without verification and advised them to cross-check information through official government sources.
Heads up! Have you also come across a message claiming the Indian government has rolled out new WhatsApp monitoring guidelines? 👀#PIBFactCheck:
— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) August 29, 2026
🚨 That information is FALSE! 🚨
📣 The Government of India has NOT released any such guidelines.
Stay informed and don't fall for… pic.twitter.com/qZ33YdLDLq
Viral WhatsApp message claims
The fake message shared by the govt handle has eleven so-called rules. These include warnings against sending political messages, alerts about arrests without warrants, and instructions to caution family and friends. If that was not already enough, the post also claimed that the users’ devices will be connected to a ministry system and warned people about sending certain messages or posts.
Towards the end of the message, there were certain claims about new WhatsApp tick marks supposedly indicating government monitoring and possible action against users. According to the post, one grey tick means the message was sent, while two grey ticks mean the message was delivered. Two blue ticks mean the message was read.
The post further claims that three blue ticks mean the government has taken note of the message, two blue ticks and one red tick mean the government can take action against the user, and one blue tick with two red ticks means the government is checking the user’s information. Finally, it claims that three red ticks mean the government has started proceedings against the user and that a court summons will soon be issued.
Why be cautious?
At the time of writing, we have not found any cases where someone has been asked for money in exchange for protection, but this could happen in the future. Such messages usually rely on the fear, urgency, or threats that the recipient may feel.
Hackers could also attach an APK to the message, claiming that the shared version is free from government surveillance or restrictions. However, once installed, the APK could unintentionally give hackers access to your device.
How to avoid WhatsApp misinformation
If you want to protect yourself from such fake messages, always verify them through the official platforms. Moreover, unless you’ve verified the claims, avoid forwarding such messages, as doing so could contribute to the spread of misinformation.
You can also check Digit’s official website, where we cover all upcoming changes as well as any silent changes.
