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    WhatsApp Update

    WhatsApp announces updates for calling on desktop and mobile

    WhatsApp announces updates for seamless calls across devices, including screen sharing with audio and a speaker spotlight feature.

    Meta's WhatsApp launches new AI tools for businesses

    Meta launches first AI-driven ad targeting program on WhatsApp to boost revenue. CEO Mark Zuckerberg unveils tools for businesses at a Brazil conference, shifting WhatsApp's stance on targeted advertising and enhancing customer engagement.

    Will use AI tools to tackle growing instances of spam on WhatsApp: Meta’s Nikila Srinivasan

    “From WhatsApp’s perspective, a core principle we follow is that anything has to be reliable and private. Anything that invades our privacy does not have any space on the platform. Our expectation from the businesses is that they have explicit permission before they reach out (to users),” Nikila Srinivasan, the company’s vice president of business messaging, told ET.

    Amazon backs social media influencers, launches Creator University

    Amazon is promoting India’s social media influencers to create content directly on the Amazon platform. Zahid Khan, director of shopping initiatives at Amazon, highlights the dual approach of leveraging external social media platforms and creating engaging content on Amazon.

    NPCI to delay payments market cap, helping Walmart-backed PhonePe, Google Pay

    India delays market share caps for digital payments, benefiting PhonePe and Google Pay. NPCI extends UPI market share cap deadline. PhonePe's UPI share increases to 48.3%, while Google Pay's decreases. Total transactions volume reaches 11.5 billion.

    ETtech Explainer: WhatsApp's standoff with Centre over end-to-end encryption

    Last week, WhatsApp told the Delhi High Court that it would have to stop operations in India if it’s forced to break encryption for compliance with India’s Information Technology (IT) Rules, 2021.

    Stock market scam: 70-year-old Thane resident loses Rs 2 crore in WhatsApp fraud

    A 70-year-old from Kolshet, Thane, Maharashtra, lost Rs 2 crore in a stock market scam after being added to a WhatsApp group by unknown individuals. The group, highlighted by The Times of India, touted share trading tips and high returns. Its administrator falsely posed as a representative of a Chicago-based investment giant, enticing traders with purported opportunities.

    Delhi HC to hear in August pleas of FB, WhatsApp against IT rules on tracing originator

    Observing that the matter would have to be argued by the parties, a bench headed by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan asked if the issue has been considered in any other country.

    Apple removes WhatsApp, Threads from China app store on government order

    Apple removed Meta's WhatsApp and Threads in China following a government order, citing national security concerns. Despite disagreement, Apple complied with the law. The apps are still accessible on other platforms.

    WhatsApp testing Meta AI chatbot in India, other markets

    WhatsApp has said that it is testing its large language model-powered chatbot Meta AI, with users in India and some other markets, in an effort to tap the massive user base to up its artificial intelligence (AI) offerings.

    Meta's WhatsApp down for thousands, Downdetector shows

    WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, experienced a significant outage affecting thousands of users globally. Downdetector tracked over 17,000 incidents, with users in India, the UK, and Brazil reporting problems. Meta did not respond to requests for comment.

    SMS makes a strong comeback as global firms shift away from WhatsApp

    Global tech firms like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have returned to using SMS OTPs in India after Meta's WhatsApp changed pricing and norms for international authentication messages. This has led to a 50-70% increase in monthly international SMS volume for telecom operators in India since March.

    Social media savvy Maha onion farmers tip scales against NDA

    Maharashtra farmers, led by figures like Sharad Joshi and Bharat Dighole, navigate challenges in onion trade amidst government policy shifts. The use of social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook has revolutionized farmer mobilization efforts, impacting political landscapes and market dynamics.

    Meta expands third-party fact checking programme in India with PTI

    With this partnership, PTI will be allowed to identify, review and rate content as misinformation across Meta platforms including WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook.

    Noida businessman duped of Rs 9 crore in WhatsApp trading scam: Report

    A businessman named Rajat Bothra from Noida was duped of over Rs 9 crore by cyber thugs after joining a stock market trading group. Social media, especially WhatsApp, has become a breeding ground for scams.

    RCS Messaging: Decoding Apple's next move to compete with Google and WhatsApp

    Apple's announcement to enable RCS messaging in iMessage with iOS 18 upgrade, enhancing communication features for Android users. RCS, a GSMA protocol, offers advanced messaging capabilities through Universal Profile 2.4.

    Eid-ul-Adha 2024: Top 50 Eid-ul-Adha images, messages and quotes to share on Bakrid

    Eid-ul-Adha 2024: Bakrid honors Prophet Ibrahim's readiness to sacrifice his son for God. Observed by Muslims worldwide, it features prayer, feasting, and charity. This celebration fosters reflection, gratitude, and joy, promoting love and care among people. Sending messages and wishes can amplify the festive spirit and reinforce community ties. Here are some heartfelt Eid-ul-Adha wishes to share.

    ET Explainer: How will Apple's RCS support for SMSes improve user experience

    RCS is an interactive messaging protocol which enables features such as two-way communication, exchange of text/pictures/videos, group conversations, read receipts, lead generation and other advantages as compared to the traditional SMS.

    Saturday bank holiday: Are banks closed today?

    Bank holidays in June 2024: Banks across India are closed on national holidays and state-specific holidays along with second and fourth Saturdays in the month and all Sundays. The central bank designates certain holidays under the Negotiable Instruments Act, Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) holidays, and Banks' Closing of Accounts.

    Apple helping users 'cheat'? Netizens worried new iOS 18 update may risk relationships

    A brand new feature arriving on Apple iPhone soon, has netizens in relationships rather worried. According to some, Apple has rather unlocked a 'cheater's paradise' with their latest privacy and security features in the upcoming Apple iOS 18 rollout, arriving this fall. Social media is currently buzzing around the relationship issues people may face under these circumstances, claim reports.

    Ensure no more WhatsApp messages on ‘Viksit Bharat’ are sent, ECI tell IT ministry

    Between March 17 and March 18, several users received messages from a WhatsApp number registered to the IT ministry, which sent a letter from the “Government of India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”

    Misinformation Combat Alliance, Meta introduce WhatsApp Helpline to fight deepfakes

    The WhatsApp helpline will go live in March this year and will allow people to flag deepfakes by sending them to its chatbot. The chatbot will offer multilingual support in English and three regional languages - Hindi, Tamil, Telugu.

    WhatsApp, social media influencers emerge as go to campaign mediums as parties sound poll bugle

    In the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, political parties are extensively using social media to propagate their achievements and seek support from voters.

    Father's Day 2024 in USA: Messages, WhatsApp, Facebook status for Dads

    Father's Day 2024 is just around the corner, presenting a perfect opportunity to celebrate the wonderful dads in our lives.

    Google-backed RCS isn’t a threat to WhatsApp Business, says Meta executive

    Meta executive Tarcisio Ribiero’s comments come at a time when a battle is brewing between tech giant Google and Meta's WhatsApp over the rapidly growing enterprise messaging market in India. Conversational commerce wherein brands use channels such as WhatsApp and other messaging apps is expected to be a $150-175 million market in the country by 2030.

    Meta launches ‘Know What’s Real’ campaign to combat misinformation

    The social media giant said the aim of the campaign was to educate users on identifying and addressing misinformation on WhatsApp and Instagram by promoting digital best practices and highlighting available safety tools.

    Stock market fraud via WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram: Two investors lost over Rs 3 crore; how to identify scam and protect yourself

    Stock market scams via WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook or Instagram: Two investors lost over Rs 3 crore in separate scams, highlighting a concerning trend. Fraudsters lure victims via social media with promises of high returns. They use fake profiles, apps, and WhatsApp groups to build trust before blocking withdrawals. Beware social media stock tips promising high returns. It's a scam! Learn how to identify fraudsters and protect yourself. Read for modus operandi and red flags here.

    Tata Mutual Fund warns investors of fake social media accounts

    Tata Mutual Fund has issued a public caution notice to alert its investors, distributors, brokers, investment advisors, partners, and the public about fraudulent activities on social media platforms. The notice highlights the presence of fake websites, mobile applications, and WhatsApp groups impersonating the company or its officials.

    Conversational commerce powered by Gen AI to spur next wave of growth for businesses: Bain & Company - Meta Report

    Sandhya Devanathan, Head and VP, Meta in India, said the company sees business messaging as a key growth driver of its business in India. “We see it in terms of consumer behavior on our platforms, in terms of people using messaging to communicate with businesses, and we see that given the size of the WhatsApp platform and what users are asking for. 60% of the users of WhatsApp in India message a business every week,” she said.

    HSBC cuts Elastic Run valuation; Hero MotoCorp doubles down on Ather

    HSBC has cut its valuation estimate for B2B ecommerce firm Elastic Run by nearly half, bringing it under $1 billion. More on this in today’s ETtech Top 5.

    US sues Adobe over hard-to-cancel subscriptions

    The Justice Department said in its lawsuit that Adobe hid details of an expensive cancellation fee from consumers "in fine print and behind optional text boxes and hyperlinks." Adobe's website and customer service representatives made canceling additionally challenging, according to allegations in the suit.

    Paytm appoints Rajeev Agarwal to board; Neeraj Arora resigns

    Paytm has appointed former Sebi whole time member Rajeev Krishnamuralilal Agarwal to the board as non-executive independent director as Neeraj Arora had resigned citing "personal commitments".

    Dhruv Rathee factor? How YouTubers ruined Modi-led BJP’s game in Lok Sabha elections 2024

    Dhruv Rathee factor: From viral sensations to influential voices, YouTubers have emerged as a force to be reckoned with in shaping public opinion and influencing political landscapes. With millions of subscribers and a knack for captivating storytelling, these digital creators have transcended traditional media boundaries to become powerful agents of change. In the realm of Indian politics, one such figure stands out: Dhruv Rathee.

    Mother's Day 2024 in USA: Wishes, Facebook, WhatsApp status, messages

    Mother's Day 2024 wishes on WhatsApp, Facebook are the most trending thing. We have compiled a few for our readers.

    WhatsApp working on new feature to automatically create account reports

    Meta-owned WhatsApp is reportedly developing a new feature designed to automatically create reports for both accounts and channels on Android.

    Google pushing an alternative to WhatsApp enterprise messaging

    Google is pushing an alternate mobile phone messaging system in the country that could disrupt the growing use of WhatsApp by enterprises for communicating with customers.

    Trai to shortly release views on regulating communication apps

    The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) is set to provide recommendations on the possible regulation of over-the-top (OTT) communication apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal. The consultation process initiated in July last year continues, with stakeholders having provided their comments.

    Safety tips to keep your WhatsApp chats secure from everyone

    Did you know that your chats remain vulnerable to hacking even if you back them up on iCloud or Google Drive? Enabling end-to-end encryption for backups is the best way to prevent this, as it prevents the cloud storage providers from accessing your personal backed-up messages. To enable end-to-end encrypted backups, navigate to settings>Chat>Chat backup.

    WhatsApp to roll out new feature to help manage phone storage: Report

    WhatsApp is launching a new feature to help users manage phone storage, including chat filtering for storage optimization. The tool allows users to prevent accidental deletion by filtering content types, enhancing data organization.

    How to block a debit card: 4 ways to block, hotlist PNB debit card

    How to block a debit card: Punjab National Bank (PNB) customers can follow any of the following processes to block or hotlist their card. Note that debit cards, once hotlisted, cannot be de-hotlisted.

    Indians get hooked on 10-minute grocery apps, squeezing small retailers

    India's quick commerce boom is reshaping how Indians shop, with Swiggy leading the charge in the fast-paced delivery game. The SoftBank-backed company's grocery warehouse in a middle-class suburb of Mumbai operates precisely, aiming to deliver orders within 10 minutes. Swiggy's bikers, clad in bright orange T-shirts, race against time to collect and deliver packed grocery orders, with the warehouse manager emphasising the need for speed in the entire process.

    The YouTube Election: Social media emerges as key player in Indian polls

    Dahiya can see people’s enthusiasm reflected in the sudden surge in subscribers over the past month, along with better likes-to-views ratio and a higher number of comments on videos even when the content is critical and not celebratory.

    View: Overturn cultural practices and dogmas to spur our companies to spend on R&D

    WhatsApp showcases tales of ancient glory, while global reports highlight India's rankings in hunger, press freedom, and sustainable development. India ranks 40th on the GII 2023, above all BRICS nations except China.

    What is WhatsApp end-to-end encryption? Why has WhatsApp warned of leaving India?

    Messaging service platform WhatsApp on Thursday submitted before the Delhi High Court that if it is made or compelled to break encryption of messages, then the platform will stop functioning. The submissions came while the division bench led by the Acting Chief Justice was hearing the petitions moved by WhatsApp and Facebook challenging newly amended IT Rules.

    Govt bullish on online gaming sector: MoS IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar

    Chandrasekhar said the government shall progress towards allowing safe and trusted permissible gaming once it settles in its third term after the 2024 general elections.

    Rs 1.88 crore scam: How "trusted" WhatsApp group on stock tips scammed Thane businessman

    In a sophisticated scam that played out over WhatsApp, a businessman from Thane, Maharashtra, found himself defrauded of an astonishing Rs 1.88 crore. Operating a coaching class, the victim was ensnared into the fraudulent scheme after being added to a WhatsApp group named 'STOCK Vanguard (F)'. This group, comprising approximately 170 members, regularly disseminated stock tips and trading advice, initially convincing the businessman of its credibility.

    Pune brothers duped of over Rs 2 crore via WhatsApp in an online trading scam: Report

    A 53-year-old man from Pune and his brother fell victim to an online trading scam, resulting in a loss of Rs 2.45 crore. The scam initiated through the instant messaging platform WhatsApp, where the victims were enticed with promises of substantial profits from online trading.

    Trai asks mobile users to report fraudulent calls/ SMSes/ WhatsApp messages to DoT

    The telecom regulator in India has urged mobile users to report fraudulent calls, text messages, and WhatsApps from third-party agencies claiming to be the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) and threatening disconnections. The regulator stated that Trai does not initiate communications regarding mobile number disconnection and has not authorized any third-party agency to contact customers for such purposes.

    Mother's Day 2024: Heartfelt quotes, wishes, and status for Facebook and WhatsApp

    Mother's Day 2024: Mother's Day is a poignant reminder of how much mothers shape our lives and how deep their love runs. On this day we celebrate the selfless love and sacrifices of mothers worldwide. Let's celebrate by expressing gratitude, cherishing moments, and honoring these extraordinary women who enrich our lives with boundless love, wisdom, and grace.

    Odisha Board 10th Toppers list: Check BSE Odisha 10th toppers names, merit lists, district wise pass percentage and more

    BSE Odisha Class 10th Toppers List: The BSE Odisha Class 10 results for 2024 have been announced, with a pass percentage of 96.07%. The results can be accessed online, and top performers' details will be released on the official website. Students can also get results via SMS and WhatsApp for convenience. Check here for toppers list, pass percentage and other details

    Can you opt out of Meta's AI scraping? Sort of

    Meta announced the expansion of its AI services globally, using public information to train its AI starting June 26, sparking privacy concerns in Europe. Users in the U.S. were already subject to this practice. The program's future expansion remains uncertain.

    WhatsApp, take it easy, seek the law

    WhatsApp's encryption and compliance with law enforcement raise complex issues. While governments can seek information for law enforcement, WhatsApp's threat to stop services if encryption is diluted may not be effective. Indian courts have limited fundamental rights before, so finding a middle ground is crucial. WhatsApp may find success in arguing for compliance if data storage becomes unsustainable, but the wide reach of India's new data privacy law complicates this. Adaptation to local conditions and legal frameworks is key for WhatsApp, rather than making vague threats.

    Explained: Why WhatsApp is willing to leave India over encryption

    After the messaging platform said that forcing it to break message encryption may lead to its exit from India, the Delhi HC has said the right to privacy can’t be absolute. Here’s a look at why the company is arguing that its end-to-end encryption cannot be compromised

    The life, death and rebirth of an AI-generated news outlet

    Irish broadcaster Dave Fanning's defamation lawsuit involves Kasturi Chakraborty and Hemin Bakir, former journalists at BNN Breaking, revealing the impact of AI-generated news on their reputations.

    Mark Zuckerberg announces new features for WhatsApp Channels

    The new features being launched on Channels include voice updates, polls, share to status and multiple admins, the company said in a statement.

    WhatsApp update: Now stay organised with new 'Chat Filters' feature; here's how it works

    WhatsApp has launched chat filters to simplify message organization and retrieval, offering three categories: All, Unread, and Groups. Users can access filters on the Chats screen, enhancing efficiency in managing conversations. The benefits include streamlined organization, priority highlighting, and improved group chat management. Additionally, WhatsApp is introducing other updates like a revamped web interface and AI features.

    DTC bus WhatsApp ticket booking: How to book bus ticket on WhatsApp

    Instant messaging platform WhatsApp on Wednesday said DTC bus commuters in Delhi will be able to book and purchase tickets within its chatbot. Meta-owned WhatsApp introduced a QR-based ticketing service for DTC commuters across Delhi-NCR. DTC is the first state bus network that has executed this solution for riders across Delhi-NCR.

    Congress adopts multi-pronged media strategy in polls, 20,000 volunteers spread message

    Congress adopts a multi-pronged social media strategy led by Rahul Gandhi, connecting directly with people through interactive sessions and manifestos like Nyay Patra. More than 88 lakh people have downloaded the manifesto, with Gandhi's YouTube channel having 5.6 million subscribers and Instagram account over 190 million views. He also has 25.5 million followers on Twitter, 6.

    Memorial Day 2024 USA wishes, messages, quotes, WhatsApp, Facebook status: Check here

    Memorial Day 2024 wishes, messages, quotes can be shared to friends, family members and others today.

    Pig-butchering stock market get rich quick scam: Telegram, Instagram, WhatsApp used to steal lakhs from investors; tactics used, how to stay safe

    A 32-year-old woman was scammed after joining a Telegram channel promising high returns. The scam targeted homemakers and retired individuals through unverified channels. Scammers impersonated advisors from reputed banks like HDFC, SBI, and ICICI. Delhi Police have been actively arresting scammers involved in these fraudulent activities.

    Encryption Clash Explained: WhatsApp's existence in India hangs in the balance

    WhatsApp's encryption debate in the Delhi High Court has sparked a discussion on the balance between privacy and security. The court is considering a rule that requires social media companies to disclose message senders, raising concerns about privacy and data storage. WhatsApp argues that breaking encryption would violate user rights, while the government emphasizes the need for traceability in cases like communal violence. The court will continue hearings, with potential implications for messaging platforms and user privacy in India.

    WhatsApp tells Delhi High Court it will shut down if forced to break encryption

    WhatsApp said that the contents of the exchanges shared on its platform cannot be traced by any party other than the sender and the receiver as it's end-to-end encrypted in order to protect the privacy of the parties. People use the messaging platform because of the privacy assured by it and also because messages are end-to-end encrypted, its lawyer said.

    MHA think tank alerts against 'hijack', sextortion, impersonation scams on WhatsApp

    The Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) has issued an advisory and alert against various scams on WhatsApp that lead to cyber crimes and financial frauds. BPRD has identified seven types of frauds, including tricking through missed calls, video calls, job offers, investment plans, impersonation, hijacking, and screen share. Scammers hijack victims' WhatsApp accounts and request money from their contacts.

    WhatsApp outage shakes India: Users react with hilarious memes

    The recent WhatsApp outage in India left users unable to access the app on both web and mobile platforms for over an hour. Social media platforms buzzed with humorous memes and jokes under the hashtag #WhatsAppdown. WhatsApp promptly responded, assuring users of restoration efforts, and acknowledged the global impact of the outage.

    Akshaya Tritiya 2024: Top 50+ quotes, wishes, WhatsApp status, and messages in Hindi and English

    Akshaya Tritiya 2024 Wishes: Akshaya Tritiya, commemorated by Hindus and Jains globally during April or May, represents prosperity and new starts. Celebrated in various ways throughout India, it marks either Parshurama's birth or the start of the agricultural season. Observers participate in rituals, acts of generosity, and the acquisition of gold, reflecting cultural diversity. Greetings for a Happy Akshaya Tritiya extend wishes for wealth, well-being, and achievement, promoting happiness and optimism universally.

    Asaduddin Owaisi calls EAC-PM report on Hindu population decline 'Whatsapp university material'

    AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi dismissed the Economic Advisory Council to the PM (EAC-PM) report as "from Whatsapp University", questioning its credibility on Hindu population decline. BJP's Amit Malviya criticized Congress for the decline, while UP's Deputy CM blamed the party's Muslim appeasement. EAC data shows varying shifts in India's religious demographics.

    Air India Express flight delay: Airline announces WhatsApp number for getting full refund. Here are details

    Air India Express announced the cancellation of 85 flights and the termination of 30 crew members. Passengers affected by flight cancellations or delays exceeding three hours have the option to receive a full refund or reschedule their travel without incurring any fees. The official statement from Air India Express provided contact information for assistance via WhatsApp or their website.

    WhatsApp rolling out channel alerts, search messages by date features on Android

    Meta-owned WhatsApp is rolling out a feature to search messages by date, channel alerts, and hidden navigation labels on Android.

    Upper circuit stocks, hot IPOs: How a Hyderabad stock trader lost Rs 3 crore to an investment scam

    A 48-year-old stock trader from Gachibowli, Hyderabad, lost Rs 3.37 crore in an investment scam. It began with a deceptive WhatsApp invitation to join 'International Stock Trading Account', promising upper circuit stock trades. He initially invested 60 lakh, believing in the scheme's legitimacy. Subsequent transactions, guided by fake executives, led to mounting losses.

    WhatsApp to roll out automatic album feature for channels

    The introduction of an automatic album feature in WhatsApp channels will bring a significant advantage to channel owners when it becomes available for the public.

    Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath warns against fake stock tips group on WhatsApp

    Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath cautions WhatsApp users about a scam promoting a fake WhatsApp group for stock tips under his name. He urges users to report such fraudulent advertisements. The government has also issued a warning against fraudulent stock market ads on social media, advising people to be cautious and report suspicious activities.

    WhatsApp banned record 71 lakh accounts in India in Nov 2023

    Meta-owned WhatsApp banned a record over 71 lakh bad accounts in India in the month of November 2023, in compliance with the new IT Rules 2021, the company said on Monday.

    Delhi schools bomb threat: Delhi police warns against false WhatsApp messages amid ongoing probe

    The Delhi Police has cautioned against spreading false information and fake news on WhatsApp regarding the recent bomb threat at a Delhi school. They clarified that audio messages circulating about suspicious objects found in schools are entirely untrue. The Mother Mary's School in Mayur Vihar, which received a bomb threat via email, has since been reopened after a thorough search by the Delhi Police found nothing suspicious. Similar threats were received by 131 schools in Delhi, including the Sanskriti School in Chanakyapuri, which received two threat emails.

    Are Meta and GoI really tussling over encryption? Or are we watching covert mutualism at play?

    Despite seemingly insurmountable issues, India continues to be WhatsApp's second-fastest growing market, and is regularly used by Meta to test-launch new services that it hopes to monetise, like WhatsApp Business API - arguably a future money-spinner as a customer relationship management (CRM) tool for SMEs - WhatsApp Flows and WhatsApp payments.

    Attention Delhi! Now, book your DTC bus tickets through WhatsApp

    WhatsApp launched a QR ticketing service for DTC commuters in the Delhi NCR region, aiming to simplify transit. Commuters can access the service by sending 'Hi' to +91 8744073223 or scanning the QR code. The chatbot allows booking single journey QR tickets and offers a Quick purchase feature for frequent riders.

    Whatsapp investing scams: Red flags to watch out for

    Fraudsters are using identities of established brands and reputed professionals to offer investors bogus stock tips and trading courses.

    WhatsApp launches secret code for chat lock

    Meta-owned WhatsApp on Thursday launched secret code feature for millions of users, an additional way to protect sensitive chats on its platform.

    WhatsApp's new feature to show profile info in chats on Android

    Meta-owned WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature that will display profile information within users' conversations under the contact name on Android.

    Amrita Pandey suicide: Bhojpuri actress found dead under mysterious circumstances after sharing cryptic WhatsApp status

    Amrita Pandey's sudden death in her Bhagalpur apartment has shaken the entertainment world and her fans. She was found hanging, prompting investigations. Before her demise, she posted a cryptic message on WhatsApp, raising concerns. Amrita, known for her work in Hindi films and TV, had recently married and struggled with depression and career challenges.

    WhatsApp rolls out campaign to raise user safety awareness, fight misinformation

    ​​The month-long campaign highlights the Meta-owned messaging platform's in-built product features, safety tools like block and report, and forward labels that equip users to spot misinformation and prevent its circulation.

    Daily Stock Tips: How 100 fraudsters tricked 200 investors through Telegram, Instagram, and WhatsApp

    Investment scams on social media platforms lure victims with promises of high returns. Delhi Police have arrested over 100 fraudsters employing sophisticated tactics. Scammers pose as representatives of reputed firms, offering free stock recommendations and making unrealistic promises. Victims, often homemakers and retirees, fall prey to pressure tactics, losing their hard-earned money.

    "Just 9483 unread messages...": Sonu Sood's WhatsApp account restored after 61 hours

    Actor Sonu Sood had a hard time connecting with his fans after his WhatsApp account was blocked for 61 hours. Sood re-gained access to his WhatsApp account on Sunday. "Finally retrieved my WhatsApp. Just 9483 unread messages in 61 hours. Thanks (sic)," the actor wrote in a post on X.

    TikTok creators file suit to block US divestment or ban law

    The suit, which seeks injunctive relief, says the law threatens free speech and "promises to shutter a discrete medium of communication that has become part of American life."

    WhatsApp introduces "view once" feature for voice notes

    The feature allows users to designate voice notes as "View Once." This enhances privacy by preventing the recipient from exporting, forwarding, saving, or recording the voice note. The "View Once" audio will disappear once the recipient listens to it.

    LS Polls Phase 2: PM has made a ‘liar’ image of himself, says Congress’ Pawan Khera

    As the 2nd phase of Lok Sabha elections is underway, Congress leader Pawan Khera on April 26 hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for speaking lies during the election campaigns. “The first phase of voting for 102 seats, scared the PM and thus he lies, today, the second phase will end, where PM Modi’s sources tell him that this too has gone out of hands. Through you, I would like to warn the people of this country that lies will increase, and new lies will come up from the PM’s mouth. So, countrymen should stay alert and just like they have stopped believing in WhatsApp messages, they have also stopped believing in whatever the PM says. The PM himself has created this liar image of himself,” said Pawan Khera. LS Polls Phase 2: PM has made a ‘liar’ image of himself, says Congress’ Pawan Khera

    EU Commission examines Italy's tax case against Meta

    ​The EU VAT committee's assessment, the timing of which is unknown, will be non-binding, but a "No" from it could push the ministry and the tax agency to stop challenging Meta, and ultimately to drop the criminal investigation by Milan prosecutors as well, the sources said.

    Stop using WhatsApp, get Paris-made alternative: French PM Elisabeth Borne

    In a ministerial circular, Elisabeth Borne urged ministers and their top staff to deploy the Olvid app on phones and computers, her office told Reuters on Wednesday, confirming French media reports.

    WhatsApp working on secret code feature for locked chats on Android

    According to WABetaInfo, a new settings section might be available within the list of users' locked chats, providing them with the option to hide the entry point to open locked chats.

    SC will share cause lists, info about filing and listing of cases through WhatsApp: CJI

    The Chief Justice of India, D Y Chandrachud, announced the Supreme Court's initiative to enhance access to justice by integrating WhatsApp messages with its IT services. Advocates will now receive automated messages regarding case filing and cause lists, aiming to streamline court procedures and reduce paper usage.

    Apple says it was ordered to pull WhatsApp from China app store

    Several other global messaging apps had also been removed from Apple's App Store in China on Friday, including Signal, which is based in the US, and Telegram, which is based in Dubai, UAE, according to Appfigures, a market research firm that analyses the digital economy.

    AU Small Finance Bank launches array of products including Rupay credit card

    AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) has introduced several new products to boost fee income, including the AU SPONT Rupay Credit Card and Secured Credit Card - NOMO. The NOMO Credit Card is AU SFB's first secured credit card, backed by a Fixed Deposit (FD), offering rewards and benefits like airport lounge access and fuel surcharge waivers. AU SFB has also launched the AU 0101 Business App for proprietorships and MSMEs, and the AU 0101 Version 2.0 for enhanced mobile banking. Additionally, they have introduced ATM Insurance and WhatsApp Insurance, offering innovative ways for customers to buy insurance.

    Hanuman Jayanti 2024: 108 wishes, images, quotes, WhatsApp messages, Facebook status to send to your loved ones

    Hanuman Jayanti 2024: Hanuman Jayanti celebrates Lord Hanuman's birth, emphasizing devotion and strength. The festival unites communities in honoring his divine attributes through rituals, recitations, and charitable activities, seeking blessings for success and protection.

    Denied tickets, betting sites still vie for seats in poll arena

    Offshore betting apps in India allow users to bet on elections using rupees. Criminals use mule accounts for money laundering, evading taxes. Gaming experts noted a smaller scale of betting in the 2019 general elections.

    WhatsApp rolling out message reaction filtering feature for channels

    The message reaction filtering feature for channels is available to some beta testers who install the latest version of WhatsApp beta for iOS, according to the report.

    WhatsApp now lets you hide your location from other parties on call

    The new option hides your IP address from the other party by relaying calls through WhatsApp Servers, ensuring that other parties in the call cannot see your IP and subsequently deduce your general geographical location.

    TikTok, ByteDance sue to block US law seeking sale or ban of app

    TikTok and ByteDance file lawsuit to block law forcing divestiture or ban, citing First Amendment violations. Concerns over Jan. 19 deadline and national security issues. Ongoing conflict between U.S. and China over tech.

    Meta AI: Mark Zuckerberg unveils AI chatbot attached to Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp. Know its features in detail

    Meta AI can be accessed on WhatsApp, Instagram, Messenger, and Facebook by typing "@meta ai" within chats. You can also access it by tapping on a colorful blue circle icon which lets you know that Meta AI is there.

    WhatsApp Channels surpasses 500 million monthly active users

    WhatsApp has more than two billion monthly active users (MAU), and in India, its largest market with over 400 million users, its revenues being close to $1 billion, as per estimates.

    WhatsApp bans over 75 lakh bad accounts in India in October

    The most popular messaging platform, which has over 500 million users in the country, received another record 9,063 complaint reports in October in the country, and the records "actioned" were 12.

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