WhatsApp SIM Mandatory: In a major decision, the government has mandated that all messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram be mandatorily linked to an active SIM. The app will shut down upon removing the SIM, and web logins will need to be re-verified every six hours.

New Telecom Rules 2025: The Indian government has made a major decision for the millions of users of apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, ShareChat, JioChat, and Arattai. These messaging apps will no longer be able to function without an active SIM card. Under the government's new Telecommunication Cybersecurity Amendment Rules 2025, app-based communication platforms will be regulated like the telecom sector for the first time.

What is the new rule?

The government has clearly stated that these apps must ensure that the SIM card remains continuously active in the device, and the app's service will stop as soon as the SIM is removed. This system will have to be implemented in every app within 90 days. A major change has also been made for those who use features like WhatsApp Web on a web browser. Now, the web login will automatically log out every 6 hours. QR code re-verification will be necessary to login again. The government claims that this step is extremely important to prevent fraud, cybercrime and international scam operations.

Why was this strict decision taken?

DoT says that this is the biggest security leak in apps right now. The mobile number is verified for the first time. After that, even if the SIM is removed, deactivated or changed, the app continues to work without interruption! In such a situation, scammers can keep using fake numbers from other countries, it is almost impossible to reach them through location, call records or carrier data and it becomes very difficult to stop financial fraud and spam. COAI (Cellular Operators Association of India) says that continuous SIM binding will maintain traceability between the user, number and device. This method will strengthen security like banking and UPI apps.

Will SIM binding really provide security?

Experts' opinions are divided. Some point to its benefits. They say it will reduce fraud, verify every app-used SIM, and make it easier to identify fraudsters. Other experts believe that it's still easy to obtain SIM cards using fake IDs, scammers can still get away with it, the login experience can be extremely inconvenient, and many questions about privacy may arise. The biggest concern for millions of users is that WhatsApp Web will no longer be available 24/7.

Image Credit: Gemini