New Delhi: A big update has come out from the government for those who use apps like WhatsApp, Telegram or Snapchat. The government has imposed new conditions by making necessary changes in the way of using many popular messaging apps of the country. Earlier, WhatsApp or other messaging apps could be used in any smartphone without installing a SIM, but now this will not happen. Any app can be installed in the phone without SIM, but to login and use it, a SIM with the mobile number registered in the device must be installed.

Under the new rules of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), WhatsApp Web and similar web versions will have automatic logout every six hours and login again through QR code. The purpose of this change is to prevent misuse of these apps by cyber criminals. Earlier, cyber criminals were able to commit fraud through the app even after the SIM was deactivated because the app worked independent of the SIM once logged in. Now due to SIM binding, a strong link will be created between the user’s number, phone and app, which will control spam, fraud calls and financial fraud.

Apart from this, strengthening the telecom security framework is the priority of the government, hence companies will have to implement this rule within 90 days and submit compliance report within 120 days. This new rule has been implemented under the Telecom Cyber ​​Security (Amendment) Rules, 2025, which for the first time also brings app-based telecom services under the stringent telecom rules. Experts also believe that this rule will make mobile number based digital identity more reliable. This new rule will make app-based communication in India more secure and accountable, which will be beneficial for all users.

SIM card binding may cause users to log off in a hurry, but this step will help in increasing security and reducing fraud in the long run. It is believed that with this decision of the government, the security of personal information of apps and users sending or receiving messages will become even stronger.