WhatsApp will not work without SIM card, the rule of SIM binding will be applicable from March 1

Sim Binding India: Now a big change is going to happen for all the apps that people use to chat or make calls on the internet. Actually, ‘SIM-binding’ will be implemented from March 1. In simple language, this means that if the SIM card with which the account has been created is removed from the phone, then the app will stop running in that phone.

The Central Government has made it clear that there will be no relaxation or relaxation in the rules related to SIM-binding. Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia made it clear on Wednesday that this rule will come into effect from March 1 and the deadline for this will not be extended. This means that from March 1, it is very important to have a SIM card in your mobile to run apps like Whatsapp, Telegram and Signal. At present many people use WhatsApp even without a SIM card.

What is the new rule of SIM binding?
From March 1, apps like WhatsApp and Signal will be required to ‘bind’ their accounts to the SIM card. This simply means that your WhatsApp or Signal app will work only when the registered SIM card is physically present and active in your phone. You will not be able to use WhatsApp on your phone from any other phone number if that SIM is not in your phone.

Why did the government take this tough decision?
According to the Communications Minister, this decision has been taken for national security and to prevent fraud.

• Scammers often send fake calls and messages using other people’s numbers.
• SIM binding will ensure that the app is being used only by the person who has the SIM card.

Companies expressed concern
Internet companies (like Meta, Google) say that this rule is technically quite difficult. He has argued that many tablets and laptops do not have SIM slots, it will be difficult to run these apps there. This may spoil the user’s experience. However, the government believes that the security of the country is more important than user experience.

Rules for those running WhatsApp on computer
People who use WhatsApp on a computer as a linked device will be logged out of their session every 6 hours.