iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 30/12/2023

Big thanks to the best @captnemo.in for hosting a match donation for us on his birthday! With your help, we raised around Rs. 3.06 lakhs yesterday! We appreciate your consistent love & support for IFF & its commitment to stand up for digital liberties in India. Thanks, Nemo 💞💞

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Reposted by Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF)

Nemo @captnemo.in · 29/12/2023

👋 It's my birthday today. I'm not a birthday person, but this year I'm doing a fundraiser for @internetfreedom.bsky.social 🎉. I'll be matching donations made to IFF today so you can double your impact: internetfreedom.in/double-your-... (Please boost)

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a k_wala @akwala.bsky.social · 22/12/2023

A bill effectively codifying a government #surveillance regime could become law in #India. As @internetfreedom.bsky.social explains, its broad language affects all types of online communication, including those that are end-to-end encrypted. internetfreedom.in/first-read-t...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 21/12/2023

Can't make it to the call? Bookmark the Youtube Livestream link to catch the briefing call later at your own pace! youtube.com/live/FTUlT-X...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 21/12/2023

Starting in 30! The Telecom Bill, 2023 was passed in the Rajya Sabha today with meagre deliberation. It is simply a repackaging of colonial-era powers. Join us at 5 PM IST to learn about the scope & implications of this bill. 1/n Register now 🔗🔗 us06web.zoom.us/meeting/regi...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 18/12/2023

With the release of the Broadcasting Bill, 2023, now the draft Telecom Bill, 2023 and the rumoured upcoming DPDPA Rules, the fight for our digital rights is at a critical juncture. 5/5 We need YOUR support now more than ever. internetfreedom.in/donate

internetfreedom.in

Donate to Internet Freedom Foundation

We fight for the digital rights of every Indian, but we can’t do it alone—donate today.

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 18/12/2023

While we wait for the fresh draft to be released in the public domain, check out our public brief on the draft Telecom Bill, 2022. 4/5 content.internetfreedom.in/api/files/di...

content.internetfreedom.in

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 18/12/2023

The draft Indian Telecom Bill, 2022 received backlash from several sets of stakeholders during the public consultation last year. Although the Ministry reportedly conducted several inter-ministerial discussions on several issues, glaring privacy concerns remain. 3/5 www.livemint.com/industry/tel...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 18/12/2023

Such last minute introductions & changes create hindrances in a meaningful, healthy, & detailed interaction between parliamentarians. This defeats the purpose of a list of business, which is set well in advance. We oppose the dilution of core parliamentary ethics & democratic values. 2/5

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 18/12/2023

UPDATE: In the midst of protests, Ashwini Vaishnaw introduced the Telecom Bill, 2023. The session has been adjourned till 2 PM. The Bill was listed in yesterday’s (Dec 17) Bulletin for introduction on the President’s recommendation under Article 117(1). 1/5 drive.google.com/file/d/1goVY...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 08/12/2023

➡️So you can’t handle the truth, huh? Risks around censorship of satire, irony, dissent, and hard-hitting truth may become reality. We urge MIB to withdraw the Broadcasting Bill & steer away from dictating modifications & deletions. 8/9

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 08/12/2023

➡️I think we’ve seen this film before… and we didn’t like the ending. The Union govt's powers on future rulemaking create a skewed power dynamic. We urge MIB to refrain from overbroad provisions that may lead to unbridled censorship. 7/9

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 08/12/2023

➡️The Broadcasting Bill imposes strict rules on “OTT” platforms, leading to disproportionate content censorship, more financial burdens, less user choice, & potentially stifling innovation. 6/9

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 08/12/2023

➡️As if “OTT” content regulation was not enough, the Bill also extends regulatory control to any person broadcasting news through a digital medium. This threatens democratic principles of online free speech, impacting both media companies & individuals. 5/9

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 08/12/2023

➡️The Bill is laden with ambiguous definitions, vague terms, & excessive rule-making powers. There may be misuse through subjective & selective application of the provisions. We urge MIB to address the uncertainties. 4/9

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 08/12/2023

We urge MIB to withdraw this draconian bill. Why?👇 ➡️The consultation, which is currently only in English, lacks inclusivity. We push for multilingual publication of the bill for a meaningful consultation process that is more accessible. 3/9

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 08/12/2023

The Broadcasting Bill was published on Nov 10, 2023, & public comments were initially invited till Dec 9. However, following representations from various stakeholders, MIB has extended this deadline to January 15, 2024. 2/9 mib.gov.in/sites/defaul...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 08/12/2023

The recent Broadcasting Bill, 2023 may soon grant the govt powers to censor streaming shows & news analysis by journalists. ⚠️We are not fans. It's a threat to online free speech & artistic freedoms. Flagging these, we’ve sent detailed comments to MIB. Read ⬇️1/9 internetfreedom.in/comments-on-...

internetfreedom.in

Dear MIB, kill the bill and #LetUsChill: Our comments on the Broadcasting Bill, 2023

The Broadcasting Bill, 2023 may soon allow the government to censor streaming shows and news analysis by journalists. Join the campaign #LetUsChill and write to MIB using our template response in just...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 28/11/2023

For a quick reading list! 1. internetfreedom.in/broadcast-se... 2. www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead... 3. indianexpress.com/article/opin... 4. theprint.in/opinion/indi...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 28/11/2023

Did you hear? Another tool of executive control is in town That’s MIB's Broadcasting Bill, 2023. Join us today at 5 PM to know the implications of government censures in the realm of OTT broadcasting services. Register 🔗 ½ us06web.zoom.us/meeting/regi...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 31/10/2023

The recent disclosures by MPs raises alarm & highlights the urgent need for surveillance reform. We urge the Indian Govt to reject the use of surveillance tech. There needs to be an impartial investigation to determine the source & extent of the potential attack. 6/6

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 31/10/2023

The Committee report, shared with the SC in a sealed envelope, is yet to be available publicly. In light of these rising instances of such unethical & unlawful surveillance, the report must be made public, in the interest of transparency. 5/n internetfreedom.in/pegasus-inve...

internetfreedom.in

Pegasus Report to remain in sealed cover despite containing evidence that 5 phones had malware

The SC-appointed committee on use of Pegasus has concluded that malware was found in 5 out of 29 phones submitted to it, but the use of Pegasus could not be confirmed. Furthermore, the Report is to re...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 31/10/2023

In 2021, the alleged use of the Pegasus spyware by the Union government to surveil over 300 verified Indians, including ministers, opposition leaders, & journalists, was investigated by the committee of experts constituted by the Supreme Court (SC). 4/n internetfreedom.in/iffs-stateme...

internetfreedom.in

IFF’s Statement on Hacking Revelations made by the Pegasus Project

Read our statement in response to the revelations made by the Pegasus Project which revealed that over 300 verified Indian mobile telephone numbers were targeted by the Israeli spyware firm, NSO Group...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 31/10/2023

Apple has reportedly stated that it does not attribute the threat notifications to any specific state-sponsored attacker & shared its inability to provide reasoning behind sending threat notifications, citing potential risk of such attackers evading detection in the future. 3/n x.com/timesofindia...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 31/10/2023

The potential use of such illegal and unlawful surveillance tools on political figures is antithetical to the democratic ideals of our country. Such reports suggesting government surveillance in the lead up to the general and several state elections is a further cause of concern. 2/n

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 31/10/2023

Short Statement: Several MPs, including Priyanka Chaturvedi, Mahua Moitra, Shashi Tharoor, Supriya Shrinate, Sitaram Yechury, Pawan Khera, Raghav Chadha, Asaduddin Owaisi are potentially being targeted by state-sponsored attackers, as per an Apple threat notification received by them. 1/n

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ashlesh @ashleshbiradar.bsky.social · 19/10/2023

Power to the People! #GED2023 Join us today at The Encryption Summit, as we celebrate our right to privacy and fight back to ensure everyone, everywhere has access to encryption.

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 19/10/2023

E2EE is like the superhero of online security, and on Global Encryption Day, let's unite to defend it. No to government shortcuts that weaken our digital fortress. Let's keep our digital liberties shielded. 4/4 Register now: events.zoom.us/ev/ApH8z4TMC...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 19/10/2023

Every year on October 21st, Global Encryption Day is celebrated, bringing people together around the world to champion strong encryption & to deliver the message to governments that weakening encryption puts people at risk. 3/4

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 19/10/2023

Tune in to learn about how Freedom of Expression and secure communication interact in the context of South Asia from a stellar line-up of panelists, Farieha Aziz, Seema Chisti, Ambika Satkunanathan, & Julhas Alam, facilitated by IFF’s Policy Director @prateekwaghre.bsky.social. 2/4

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 19/10/2023

Encryption, our digital guardian, faces challenges from state & non-state actors worldwide. Join us today at The Encryption Summit, “Encryption and Free Expression in South Asia” hosted by IFF at 5 PM! #GED2023 1/4 Register now! events.zoom.us/ev/ApH8z4TMC...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 18/10/2023

Join us tomorrow at The Encryption Summit to celebrate the transformative power of encryption with @internetsociety.bsky.social, Center for Democracy & Technology, GlobalPartnersD and Mozilla #GED2023 Register now 👇 events.zoom.us/ev/ApH8z4TMC...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 13/10/2023

We look forward to collaborative efforts between decision makers and our mission to safeguard digital rights. But this materializes only with your untethered support. Keep us going, keep us afloat. Donate to IFF or become a member now! 9/9 internetfreedom.in/donate/

internetfreedom.in

Donate to Internet Freedom Foundation

We fight for the digital rights of every Indian, but we can’t do it alone—donate today.

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 13/10/2023

We believe that collaboration between the government & civil society can contribute to developing strong governance frameworks for India's digital transformation. We hope that MeitY & DoT will engage in meaningful dialogues & align with our mission to defend online freedom! 8/9

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 13/10/2023

Addressing our ongoing engagement with MeitY, we pushed for it to involve civil society stakeholders such as IFF in public meetings and consultations. We emphasise the importance of inclusive and accessible public discussions as a pillar of deliberative democracy. 7/9

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 13/10/2023

Advocating against arbitrary internet restrictions and content blocking, we remind MeitY of the importance of transparency and fairness, and push for the proactive disclosure of blocking orders on their website. 6/9

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 13/10/2023

In our letter to the MeitY, we emphasise concerns on critical issues like the upcoming "Digital India Act" and the recent DPDPA’ 23. We urged MeitY to prioritise transparent public consultations, address lacunae, and safeguard digital rights. 5/9 internetfreedom.in/iff-writes-t...

internetfreedom.in

Nice to MeitYou! IFF writes to newly appointed MeitY Secretary

We wrote to the new MeitY secretary, welcoming him to the role and highlighting key areas that should be addressed in his tenure.

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 13/10/2023

We note that internet shutdowns have been rampant, & arbitrary censorship harms transparency & democratic values. From telecom suspensions to 5G and OTT services, we urge DoT to adopt principles that safeguard user rights, privacy, and online freedom. 4/9

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 13/10/2023

Net neutrality remains a key focus for IFF. We’ve been battling a tedious fight to ensure a free & fair internet for years now. In our letter, we reiterate the need for statutory protections for #netneutrality. 3/9

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 13/10/2023

In our letter to DoT, we talk about our engagements with the dept. on crucial issues like the draft Telcom Bill, where we voiced concerns about potential threats to constitutional rights & innovation. 2/9

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 13/10/2023

Welcoming the newly appointed DoT & MeitY secretaries, Neeraj Mittal & S. Krishnan, we wrote to them highlighting key areas that need to be addressed in their tenure. 1/9 internetfreedom.in/iff-writes-t...

internetfreedom.in

Joining the DoTs: IFF writes to newly appointed DoT Secretary

We wrote to the new DoT secretary, welcoming him to the role and highlighting key areas that should be addressed in his tenure.

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 09/10/2023

FMP's petition assumes importance in the wake of the seizure of mobile phones and laptops of journalists that continue to take place. We will keep you updated about the matter! #RightToPrivacy #DigitalDevices

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 09/10/2023

Justices S.K. Kaul and Sudhanshu Dhulia directed for the matter to be listed on November 7, 2023, after observing that the pleadings in the case have been completed. The matter was last listed on December 5, 2022. Read more about the it here👇🏾 internetfreedom.in/supreme-cour...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 09/10/2023

#HearingUpdate: Supreme Court will hear FMP's petition seeking guidelines on search and seizure of digital devices on November 7 after the matter was mentioned today by Adv. Vrinda Bhandari, with assistance from IFF's legal team.

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 07/10/2023

IFF members create the foundation for critical, long-term impact. Our memberships start from as low as INR 100– sign up today & we’ll send you an invite for our upcoming Members’ Call where you’ll get the chance to meet the team and community✨3/3 internetfreedom.in/donate/

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 07/10/2023

📢Another transparency measure? Quarterly Members’ Calls! Join us on Thursday, October 12, 2023, at 7 PM as we update you on all the work we’ve been doing this quarter to protect your digital rights and answer any questions you have for us! 2/3

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 07/10/2023

💸September 2023 Financial Disclosure 💸 This month, we received a sum of INR 2,58,175.92 from one time & recurring donors. Our total expenses were INR 7,38,602.14. We received no organisational donations this month. 1/3

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 06/10/2023

IFF’s Founder Director Apar Gupta writes for the Indian Express, about the lack of accountability from centres of power, as courts continue to sidestep internet shutdowns, and the perils of “limited internet shutdowns”. 👇 indianexpress.com/article/opin...

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Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) @internetfreedom.bsky.social · 05/10/2023

Beyond satire, this case is about transparency in censorship. And the legal battle continues. Members & donors, do join us on October 12 at 7 PM for the Quarterly Members’ call for an informed discussion around IFF’s engagements– check your 📬for registration link. 5/5

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