And finally… digit-al claim

And finally... digit-al claim

A lawyer has threatened WhatsApp with a lawsuit over its middle-finger emoji, which he claims breaches the law in Ireland and in India.

Gurmeet Singh, based in Delhi, has written to the operators of the popular messaging app to demand that the “lewd” emoji is removed within 15 days, threatening a lawsuit if they do not comply.

WhatsApp has over 200 million monthly active users in India.

In his letter, Mr Singh wrote: “Showing the middle finger is not only offensive but a highly belligerent, invasive, obscene, lewd gesture.

“As per the Indian Penal Code Sections 354 and 509, it is an offence to show obscene, lewd, offensive gestures to females. Use of a lewd, offensive, obscene gesture by anyone is hereby illegal also as aforesaid.

“As per section 6 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, showing of the middle finger is also an offence in Ireland.

“By offering to use middle finger emoji in your app, you are directly abetting the use of an offensive, lewd, obscene gesture.”

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