What Is WhatsApp License Fee Meant for Group Admins? In Which Country Has It Been Introduced? Check Details About Charges Applicable To Legally Manage WhatsApp Groups

New Delhi, November 10: Zimbabwe has reportedly introduced a new regulation for WhatsApp users. As per reports, the new regulation mandates all WhatsApp group administrators to register with the Postal and Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) and obtain a license to operate in the country. The new law reportedly requires WhatsApp group admins to pay a license fee to legally manage their groups in the country.

As per a report of Zee News, The Zimbabwean government has mandated that all WhatsApp group administrators must register with POTRAZ. They must obtain a license to legally manage their groups in the country. The regulation was announced by Tatenda Mavetera, the Minister of Information, Communication Technology, Postal, and Courier Services (ICTPCS). The primary aim of this regulation is to address the rising issue of misinformation spread through social media platforms and align with the National Data Protection Act (DPA). The government hopes to curb the circulation of false information that can lead to misunderstandings. WhatsApp Bans More Than 85 Lakh ‘Bad’ Accounts in India in September for Violating Its Policies.

WhatsApp is frequently used for sharing news, having discussions, and conducting business activities. The government thinks that by holding group admins responsible for what is shared in their groups, it can help stop the spread of false information. However, some critics believe that the policy might limit free speech and create extra costs for individuals and businesses that use WhatsApp for marketing and communication.

What Is WhatsApp License Fee Implemented in Zimbabwe?

According to Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa, the licensing process will help authorities track the origins of false information. It will also ensure better data protection. The policy is said to be in line with Zimbabwe's Data Protection Act (DPA), which considers phone numbers and other personal information as sensitive data. WhatsApp New Feature Update: Meta-Owned Messaging Platform Will Soon Allow Users To Verify Any URL Link To Curb Online Scam; Know How It Will Work.

Because WhatsApp Group Admins can access this kind of information, they must register and pay a licensing fee to the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe. The fee is at least USD 50, which is about INR 4,219. The purpose is to ensure that personal information is handled carefully and responsibly.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 10, 2024 10:48 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).