FACT CHECK: WhatsApp Channel Posing as Defence PRO is Fake, MoD Clarifies

New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence has issued a statement, alerting citizens about a fraudulent WhatsApp channel claiming to represent the Defence Public Relations Officer (PRO). This deceptive channel has been circulating on various social media platforms, disseminating information that is allegedly linked to the Indian Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence.

What Does The Fake Channel Claim?

"The Indian Army has been empowered to directly issue takedown notices to social media platforms to combat misinformation and defamation appointing the Additional Director General of Strategic Communication as the nodal officer for this task," the fake channel claimed. It also shared a link to the WhatsApp channel along with the message. 

‘No Relation Whatsoever With Armed Forces’

In its official response, the Ministry categorically denied any association with this channel, emphasizing that it has no relation whatsoever with the Armed Forces or any official department under the Ministry of Defence.

"A fake WhatsApp Channel is claiming to be Defence PRO. This channel has no relation whatsoever with any Armed Forces or Ministry of Defence. The channel might be run by mischievous, potentially antinational elements aiming to collect your contact info when you join the channel and spread false information. Do NOT join or share any information from this channel. Stay vigilant against misinformation and protect yourself from propaganda", tweeted the Ministry of Defence.