The fate of Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) hangs in the balance as Indian government officials raise serious concerns regarding the game's security. A report by News18 highlights the recommendation from a top official in India's cybersecurity division to discontinue BGMI, citing fears of potential cyberattacks and compromised national security.

 

Key Concerns Prompting Government Alarm:

  1. Foreign Influence: Recent incidents, such as the case of Seema Haider, a Pakistani national who allegedly entered India after connecting with her partner through BGMI, have intensified scrutiny over the game's potential to facilitate unauthorized cross-border interactions.

  2. Data Privacy: Authorities are questioning BGMI's data collection practices and expressing apprehension over the potential misuse of user information, raising concerns about privacy and security.

  3. Server Connectivity: Despite BGMI's servers being located in the United States, government agencies are keen to ensure that no data is transmitted to servers in other countries, particularly China, to prevent any compromise of national security.

 

Krafton's Response and Pending Review:

Krafton, the developer behind BGMI, is expected to address the government's concerns in their response, with a pivotal meeting scheduled for the upcoming week. During this meeting, Krafton will present its defense, followed by a comprehensive review by central agencies, ultimately determining the game's fate in India.

Previous Ban and Reinstatement:

BGMI faced an initial ban in India due to cybersecurity and data privacy issues, prompting Krafton to implement security enhancements. Following these measures, the game was temporarily unbanned last year.

However, ongoing concerns regarding user safety and addiction have fueled the current government review, underscoring the continued scrutiny surrounding BGMI's operations in India.

Awaiting a Final Verdict:

The coming weeks will be critical for BGMI as the government deliberates over its future in India. The decision will weigh Krafton's response against the potential risks associated with the game, prioritizing the overall well-being and security of players.