Messaging Apps: Now, messaging apps like WhatsApp will only work on phones with your registered SIM. What if you remove the SIM? Furthermore, apps on your computer will also automatically log out every six hours. Learn why the government did this and what its impact will be on you.
Messaging Apps: The Central Government has issued a new and important rule regarding popular messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal. According to this new order, users will only be able to use these apps if they have the same SIM card used to register for the app. This means that if a user removes the SIM card from their phone, the app will immediately stop working. This step has been taken to curb cybercrime and fraud.
The government believes that many criminals defraud people by using these apps from different locations and on multiple devices. This rule will increase the security of the apps and make it more difficult for criminals to operate them. This decision will come into effect in February 2026 and will be binding on all users.
The web version will also be affected.
According to the government’s order, WhatsApp Web and other web-based chat services will automatically log out every six hours. This will prevent cyber fraudsters from easily accessing criminals based abroad.
Reason for Issuing the Order
The DoT states that many fraudsters defraud people by using Indian numbers outside India or through internet calling. Until now, apps only required one-time verification of mobile numbers, making it easier for criminals to use them on multiple devices. SIM binding will make it easier for criminals to access them.
Impact on the Public
After this order, effective February 2026, a SIM card with the same number will be required to be in the phone to use WhatsApp or Telegram. If you remove the SIM, the app will close, and you will need to reinsert it and log in again to use it again.
Impact on Computer Use
On computers, WhatsApp Web and other messaging apps will now auto-log out every six hours. This means you will need to re-login on your PC every six hours. Previously, this only happened if the app was not used on the primary device for 14 days.
