The Jammu and Kashmir government has directed the officers to avoid using third-party applications to share official information. The guidelines are expected to enhance the security of official communications and safeguard classified information.To address the growing concerns over the use of third-party tools such as WhatsApp and Gmail for transmitting sensitive, secret, and confidential information, the government according to a circular no. 26-JK(GAD) of 2024, has emphasised the risks associated with such practices, including unauthorized access, data breaches, and leaks of classified information.
The order calls for strict adherence to secure communication protocols to preserve the integrity of governmental operations.
The key directives in the order include:
Use of Government Communication
Platforms:
Officials are instructed to utilize NIC email and government-mandated messaging platforms like CDAC’s Samvad and NIC’s Sandesh for CONFIDENTIAL and RESTRICTED communications.
The government has instructed the officials that the top secret information must be transmitted only via closed networks with SAG-grade encryption, while CONFIDENTIAL and RESTRICTED information may use commercial AES 256-bit encryption. Similarly, the departments are supposed to ensure VPN and firewall-protected access to e-Office systems, restricting usage to authorized personnel only. Regarding the Video Conferencing Protocols, the Government-approved VC solutions must be employed, with precautions like Meeting IDs, passwords, and waiting room features. The top secret details are prohibited during Video Call meetings.
