Centre to Question Meta Over CSAM, WhatsApp Username Risks and Content Moderation

August 4, 2026

New Delhi: The Centre is likely to meet senior executives of Meta on August 5 to seek explanations on several issues, including the handling of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), risks linked to WhatsApp usernames and content moderation policies across its platforms.

The meeting will be held by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) as the government seeks details on steps taken by Meta to address growing concerns related to online safety and digital platforms.

CSAM, AI Content Among Key Concerns

MeitY Secretary S Krishnan said discussions will focus on multiple issues that have recently come under government scrutiny.

One of the major concerns is Meta’s approach towards preventing the spread of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on its platforms. The government wants to understand what measures have been implemented to detect and remove such harmful content.

Officials are also expected to raise concerns regarding synthetically generated content, including AI-created material, and the safeguards used by Meta to prevent misuse.

Government Raises Questions Over WhatsApp Usernames

The Centre is also likely to seek clarification on the proposed WhatsApp username feature, which had earlier raised concerns related to impersonation, online fraud and cybercrime.

The government had asked WhatsApp not to introduce the feature until adequate safeguards were put in place to prevent misuse.

Officials are also expected to discuss Meta’s content removal processes, particularly in cases involving verified and prominent accounts, and whether sufficient checks exist before taking down such content.

Meta Under Scrutiny After PM Modi Post Removal

The meeting comes days after the government summoned Meta’s President of Global Affairs Joel Kaplan over concerns related to the company’s content moderation policies.

The issue gained attention after a social media post by Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing protesting students over examination paper leaks was removed. Meta later said the removal happened due to an error in its automated enforcement system and apologised for the mistake.

The government has been closely monitoring Meta’s policies in recent weeks, seeking greater transparency and stronger safeguards on its platforms.