Why India's Govt Advises Against Using WhatsApp Web On Office Laptops?

New Delhi: India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology recently issued a public advisor against using WhatsApp Web on office computers and laptops. The advisory explained to citizens that using the WhatsApp Web on office systems would expose sensitive information to the employer, potentially causing problems.

While admitting that using the WhatsApp Web on office systems might be convenient to access personal chats and files on a work device, doing so can provide the administrators and IT teams access to private conversations and personnel files, highlighting that the manipulation can occur through various means, including screen-monitoring software, malware, or browser hijacks.

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The government’s Information Security Awareness (ISEA) team recently highlighted the risks associated with using the messaging platform on corporate devices, pointing out increasing cybersecurity concerns at workplaces. The advisory also warns that even using office Wi-Fi could grant companies some level of access to employees’ personal phones, putting private data at risk. It highlighted the potential for data breaches if the laptop is compromised and the risk of data interception on insecure Wi-Fi networks.

ISEA says many companies view the WhatsApp website as a potential security risk as it could possibly be a gateway for malware and phishing attacks that could compromise their entire network.

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The government also issued precautions for those who must use the WhatsApp Web on office devices. It recommends logging out of the service before leaving your desk, and being cautious when clicking on links or opening attachments from unknown contacts, and familiarize with the company’s policies on using personal applications and devices for work.