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House Panel Urges Mandatory KYC for Social Media, Dating and Gaming Apps in India

The non-binding proposal now awaits a government response.

Overview

  • The committee's Fourth Report, tabled in both Houses on Monday, urges compulsory identity checks across social networks, dating apps and online games.
  • KYC would require users to confirm who they are with government IDs such as Aadhaar or PAN, a step meant to deter fake profiles and impersonation.
  • Platforms would need periodic re-verification and high-risk tags for accounts repeatedly reported for abuse, with penalties for poor protection of women and minors.
  • Dating and gaming services would add strict age gates and tighter licensing, aiming to keep underage users away from sexual exploitation and coercive tactics.
  • Lawmakers cite a surge in cybercrimes against women, including a near 239% rise since 2017, while critics warn mass ID collection could invite breaches, surveillance and exclusion for people without documents.