Army revises social media guidelines, directs personnel to be passive users

Jammu, Dec 25: The Indian Army has issued an internal directive revising its policy on the use of social media applications by personnel, underscoring the need for heightened operational security and responsible online conduct in an era of evolving cyber threats.

The guidelines, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) disseminated through the Directorate General of Military Intelligence (DGMI), have come into immediate effect and existing rules stand updated.

This move reflects a balanced approach, allowing limited digital access while maintaining strict safeguards against potential breaches, misinformation, or exploitation.

For Instagram and Similar Platforms (including YouTube, X — formerly Twitter — and Quora), army personnel may access these apps solely for viewing and monitoring content. Passive participation is permitted to stay informed or gather general knowledge. No comments, likes, posts, views, or any form of interaction are allowed.

Use of messaging Apps like Skype, WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal are limited for exchange of unclassified information of a general nature, but strictly limited to known contacts. Users bear full responsibility for verifying the recipient’s identity to prevent unintended leaks.

While use of LinkedIn is permitted only for professional purposes, such as uploading resumes or researching potential employers/employees.

The Army has reiterated warnings against using VPNs, torrent sites, cracked software, or anonymous proxies, citing associated security risks.

This policy builds on prior restrictions imposed in 2020, when personnel were directed to delete accounts on platforms like Facebook and Instagram amid concerns over honey-trapping and data leaks linked to foreign intelligence agencies.

The updated rules aim to enable soldiers to remain digitally aware without compromising sensitive information.

Defence sources emphasized that the directive prioritizes vigilance, stating that the responsibility for secure and correct usage ultimately rests with individual users.

The Indian Army’s official public information handle @adgpi has not yet posted about the update, but it aligns with ongoing efforts to counter misinformation and adapt to modern digital realities while safeguarding national security.