Biman Bangladesh Airlines has officially banned the use of WhatsApp and similar messaging platforms for internal and official communication. The decision, recently announced by the national carrier, is aimed at improving information security, accountability, and operational efficiency across all departments. The move comes in response to concerns about data privacy, leakage of sensitive information, and the informal nature of messaging apps in handling critical communications. Biman has directed all employees, including senior management, to use only official email channels and secure internal systems for work-related matters going forward. With the increasing importance of cybersecurity in both government and corporate operations, organizations are reviewing their communication tools more seriously. Messaging apps, while convenient, are often vulnerable to unauthorized access or data breaches if not managed under formal IT policies. By restricting the use of third-party platforms like WhatsApp, Biman aims to ensure that confidential information, including flight schedules, technical updates, staffing decisions, and financial data, remains within controlled systems. This decision also aligns with international aviation practices, where secure, traceable communication is a standard protocol for compliance and safety. Officials have clarified that this is not a ban on personal use of messaging apps, but rather a move to separate personal communication from official workflows. Employees are being trained to rely on institutional email, document management tools, and in-house messaging systems approved by the IT department. The airline is also working to improve its digital infrastructure to support this shift. This includes enhancing internal platforms, upgrading server security, and introducing user-friendly systems that encourage full adoption across departments. The goal is to establish a professional, accountable environment for internal collaboration. Industry observers note that this change may serve as a model for other public-sector organizations in Bangladesh. As institutions deal with growing volumes of digital communication, a clear policy on secure and traceable channels helps protect sensitive data and improve administrative discipline. Bimanโs action highlights the balance that modern organizations must maintain between convenience and compliance. While messaging apps have become part of everyday life, official tasks demand a higher level of oversight and protection. As the airline continues its broader efforts to modernize operations and improve service quality, such policy changes demonstrate its commitment to responsible digital management. Ensuring secure communication is an essential step toward building a more reliable and future-ready national carrier.
