NEW DELHI: The Indian Army has warned its officers against being active on social media platforms, particularly WhatsApp groups where the members are often strangers.

The move follows an analysis by the Army that has indicated that information leaked on WhatsApp groups are being used for propaganda, sources said.

In recent instructions issued by the Army headquarters, personnel have been told to keep off large groups that have people who are not their personal contacts.

It has been made clear that identity of members on these groups should be confirmed before they become part of any group.

While there is no ban on using social media or being part of WhatsApp groups, sources said many officers exited groups fearing action after instructions came out.

Officials said the instructions are not new but are a reiteration of what has been stated earlier as well.

"Security is a serious issue for us on WhatsApp. There are systems available to mask your real identity and get access," said an official.

It has been noticed that fake messages meant for propaganda have flooded chat groups of serving military officials triggering a misinformation campaign on various social media platforms.

"In many cases official communication is also being circulated on WhatsApp. This needs to stop as there could be leaks, compromising security," said an army source.

There is also a danger of honey traps on social media and new instructions have bene given to officers in this regard.