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Meta Summoned: The government is keeping a close watch on Meta. According to sources, IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw issued strict instructions to ministry officials on Friday to immediately summon Meta and seek an explanation regarding advertisements on Instagram that promote Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). However, the issue extends beyond just Instagram; the government had already issued a notice to the company last Wednesday regarding WhatsApp's proposed username feature.

**Meta to be Asked for an Explanation Regarding Instagram Ads**
Sources indicate that the IT Ministry may ask Meta to clarify how advertisements linked to content involving alleged child sexual abuse appeared on Instagram. Furthermore, the government seeks to know what safety measures the company has implemented to prevent such incidents. An explanation regarding the functioning of the advertisement review process may also be sought.

**Meta in Government's Crosshairs for the Second Time in a Week**
This is not the first time the government has taken a tough stance against Meta; the central government had previously issued a notice to the company on Wednesday regarding WhatsApp's proposed username feature. While the IT Ministry has not yet issued the second notice, preparations to do so are certainly underway.

Regarding the WhatsApp username feature, the government had expressed concerns that it could facilitate online fraud, phishing, "digital arrest" scams, and cyberattacks involving the creation of fake identities.

**What Instructions Were Issued Regarding the WhatsApp Feature?**
The government directed Meta not to launch the WhatsApp username feature until satisfactory discussions on the matter were concluded with the government.
Additionally, Meta was asked why action should not be initiated against it under the IT Act and relevant rules, given the potential for the feature to increase cybercrime. Reminder Regarding IT Rules
Furthermore, the government reminded Meta that, as a 'Significant Social Media Intermediary' in India, WhatsApp is obligated to comply with all due diligence requirements stipulated under the IT Act and IT Rules. In other words, the company's responsibility extends beyond merely launching new features; it also encompasses ensuring user safety and preventing potential misuse.

What is the government's concern?
In these matters, the government is primarily focusing on two key issues:
Children's online safety and the prevention of sensitive content.
Controlling cybercrimes that could potentially arise from new digital features.
For this reason, detailed responses are being sought from Meta regarding both Instagram Ads and the WhatsApp username feature.

What could happen next?
Experts suggest that if Meta is formally summoned, the company will need to present its stance on the Instagram advertising system, content moderation, and safety measures. Meanwhile, a decision regarding the WhatsApp username feature can only be reached following further discussions between the government and Meta.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.