Tax Bill Allows Govt to Access Emails, Social Media, Bank Accounts
Starting April 1, 2026, the Income Tax Department will have the authority to access individuals’ digital spaces—including social media accounts, personal emails, bank accounts and online investment platforms—if they suspect tax evasion or possession of undisclosed assets.
WhatsApp Wins Privacy Case Against Pegasus Spyware in US
In a landmark decision, a U.S. court has ruled in favour of WhatsApp, holding the Israeli spyware maker NSO Group directly liable for targeting about 1,400 users with its Pegasus spyware, including over 300 Indian mobile numbers.
Should Citizens Bear the Burden of Proving Unauthorised Government Surveillance?
In response to mercenary spyware threat notifications—likely from Pegasus spyware, with the government as a probable suspect—received by opposition politicians, activists and journalists from Apple, the government reportedly plans to require the victims to prove any breaches themselves and through a government agency.
Aussie Media Claims India’s Covert Activities Risk Australia’s National Security
Australian national public media has joined Canada and the United States in expressing serious concerns over India’s alleged covert operations on foreign soil, which they claim threaten their national security. Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) has accused India of espionage and undermining political integrity in Australia.
Rampant Use of Spyware Against Indian Journalists, Report Says
There is new evidence of the ongoing use of Pegasus spyware against Indian journalists, says a report released on Dec. 28 by Amnesty International and The Washington Post. This comes about two months after Apple alerted iPhone users globally, including over 20 journalists and opposition politicians in India, about potential targeting by state-sponsored attackers.
Report Alleges Covert Indian Operation in the US
The Washington Post has reported that a “covert Indian operation,” established in the United States to combat misinformation against India, has been using social media to sway public opinion and target critics of the Indian prime minister.
Who’s Watching Your Phone?
Imagine you’re having a casual conversation on your phone, completely unaware that someone might be listening in. No, it’s not a jealous partner or a nosy neighbour; it’s far more insidious. Recent notifications from tech giant Apple to politicians, activists and journalists reveal that even our trusted smartphones are not beyond the reach of unwarranted surveillance.