New rule for running WhatsApp comes into effect from today, what will be the effect on your phone? Government has a big plan

From today i.e. from March 1, the way of using messaging apps is going to change in India, and users will have to ensure that their registered SIM is always active and present in the device. In fact, in view of the rapidly increasing cases of cyber fraud and digital fraud in India, the government has taken a big step. Now the major messaging platforms used in the country will have to follow strict SIM-binding rules.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has officially directed several app companies including WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Snapchat, ShareChat, JioChat, Arattai and Josh to ensure that their services work only when a registered SIM card is present and active in the respective mobile device.

This order has been issued under the Telecom Cyber ​​Security (TCS) Rules, 2024. The companies were given a time limit of 90 days, which is ending on 28th February, and this new rule will come into effect from today i.e. 1st March. The government says that this step is necessary to curb the increasing incidents like SIM-swap scams, fake identity and online fraud.

What will change from today (1 March)?

• If the registered SIM is removed, changed or deactivated from the mobile, the respective app will stop working on that device.
• The service will restart only after re-inserting the correct SIM and authentication.
• Web/desktop versions like WhatsApp Web and Telegram will auto logout every 6 hours.
• To login again, you will have to scan the QR code from the phone which has an active SIM.

What is the purpose of the government?
According to the government, this system is being implemented to strengthen the identity of users and increase the traceability of messaging apps. Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has made it clear that the deadline will not be extended and this is a necessary step for digital security.

Industry concerns
Industry organizations have expressed apprehension that this may cause inconvenience to users who use multi-devices or travel frequently. However, the government believes that giving priority to security is the need of the hour and this rule will strengthen the cyber security framework.