The Central Government on Monday blocked 14 mobile messenger apps over security concerns.

Reportedly, the government blocked the messenger mobile applications that were used by terrorists in Pakistan for communication purposes, i.e., to receive and send messages from Pakistan to Jammu & Kashmir.

Enigma, Crypviser, Safewiss, Wickrme, Mediafire, Briar, BChat, Nandbox, Conion, IMO, Element, Second line, Zangi, Threena are few of the apps among others that have been blocked by the centre.

As per media reports, the latest ban was enforced on the recommendation of Ministry of Home Affairs.

“Initially, 15 mobile applications, including a leading messenger mobile application, were identified, but action was later taken against 14 apps,” reported to the Indian Express by a source, adding that these apps have been blocked under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

According to a central intelligence officer, the actions against these apps were taken only after finding that these apps were being used by terrorists in Kashmir to communicate with their supporters and on ground workers (OWG).

“These apps do not have any representatives in India and cannot be contacted for seeking information as mandated by the Indian laws,” a source said.

“The intelligence agencies also informed the MHA that most of these apps are designed to provide anonymity to their users and their features make it tough to resolve the entities associated with them. These mobile apps aid the terrorists and their affiliates to engage in activities which are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India and can disturb peace and harmony,” said another source.

(With inputs from The Indian Express)