Are you a Whatsapp group admin?
Being a group administrator on social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook could turn out to be a nightmare for people from now. The authorities have issued a warning for admins of WhatsApp groups against spreading hate speech, saying they could end up being arrested.
The group admins should be prompt in removing objectionable content that could vitiate the social atmosphere or cause hurt to any section of society. They should also bring it to the notice of the local police if they detect any rumor-mongering or posting of misleading information.
So, think twice before being an admin for a page on Facebook or for a WhatsApp group. If any fake news of rumor is circulated through your group, it could land you in jail. There are several groups on social media that are named on newsgroups and also groups with other names that are propagating news and information that is not authentic.
These are being forwarded without cross-checking. According to a report, every admin in a group is directed that any statement or post that can affect religious sentiments will be penalized. The report also said that while freedom of expression on social media is important, it also comes with a responsibility.
With over 200 million WhatsApp users in India, the report indicates that every social media group administrator should be ready to bear responsibility and ownership of the group. The admins are advised to add individuals who are known to them personally to avoid any religious disharmony, rumor etc. If any such situation arises, the admin is expected to remove such members from the group.
When such a post or rumor is being circulated, the post must be reported legally to the nearby police station, and the individual will be under the radar. It also directs that cases under the cybercrime law, Information Technology Act, IPC be filed in the case of violation of these guidelines.
Here Are 7 Diktats For Group Admins:
1. Only those who can take responsibility should become admins of the group.
2. The administration should be familiar with all other members of the group.
3. Group administrator should not only condemn but also remove such members who share objectionable content which could vitiate the social harmony.
4. The administrator should inform the local police regarding any rumor being shared on social media, or sharing of any news which is misleading.
5. If the group admin does not act against erring members, action will be taken against him/her.
6. A case will be registered against the group admin under IT Act, Cyber Act, and IPC if he or she is found guilty.
So to all the WhatsApp group admins, be careful and keep checking on the content that has been forwarded to your group and going out of your group.
Also Read: WhatsApp Will Soon Have Verified Accounts Like Twitter And Facebook