India Tries to Shut Down Bitcoin-Linked Messaging App Bitchat

India's cybercrime watchdog has ordered GitHub to remove Bitchat, an offline messaging app created by Jack Dorsey and built on bitcoin technology. The app allows users to send encrypted messages between phones over Bluetooth mesh networks without needing internet or servers.

The order was issued under Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act, citing concerns that Bitchat's architecture 'significantly impedes lawful interception, attribution, and investigation by law enforcement agencies.'

Bitchat is designed to keep payments alive during blackouts or state-imposed shutdowns. Researchers have documented protesters in India using Bluetooth mesh apps like Bitchat to coordinate despite repeated internet suspensions.