Government of India demands explanation over data sharing from Facebook

The Indian government has asked social networking major Facebook to explain reports that it had allowed phone and other device manufacturer access to its users’ personal information, including that of their friends without taking their explicit consent by June 20.

“The government of India is deeply concerned about reports of such lapses and violations,” a statement issued by the IT Ministry said.

“In response to earlier notices about breaches of personal data relating to the Cambridge Analytica episode, Facebook had apologised and given strong assurances to the government of India that they would take sincere efforts to protect the privacy of users’ data on the platform,” it said.

However, such reports raise uncomfortable questions about the assurances made by Facebook, the government said.

“Therefore, the Ministry of Electronics and IT has sought an explanation from Facebook seeking a detailed factual report… Facebook has been asked to respond by June 20,” it added.