The central government has implemented new SIM-binding rules for messaging apps. An active SIM card will now be mandatory to use apps like WhatsApp. Du ...read more

Technology Desk, New Delhi. Starting today, a major change regarding the use of messaging apps is going to be implemented. Yes, according to the central government's new guidelines, messaging apps like WhatsApp will no longer be able to be used without an active SIM card. This new rule will come into effect from today, March 1, 2026. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has taken this major step to improve telecommunications security.

Under the new system, every user account must be linked to an active SIM card of the same mobile number with which the account is registered. This new system is being called SIM-binding. This simply means that the SIM card used to create your WhatsApp account must be active in your phone. If that SIM card is not present or active in the phone, the app's service may be disabled. Let's learn more about this...

Web and desktop users also affected

It has been observed that many users previously used WhatsApp on tablets, secondary phones, or laptops without a SIM card, but this will no longer be possible. Furthermore, this new rule will also apply to the web and desktop versions. According to reports, web logins will need to be periodically re-verified. If the SIM card is not active, the account may be temporarily logged out.

Why was such a rule introduced?

The government says that SIM-based verification will significantly help prevent fake accounts and cyber fraud. This significant step and new rule has been introduced to protect digital identities and reduce online fraud.

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