New Delhi: The Central Government has made it clear on Thursday that the February 28 deadline for implementing the 'SIM binding' rule will not be extended under any circumstances. Under the new rules, if the mobile phone does not have a SIM card then messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Snapchat, ShareChat, JioChat, Arattai and Josh will not work. Additionally, people who use WhatsApp on a computer will be automatically logged out every 6 hours. The government claims that this will help in catching cyber fraudsters.

What is the new rule? How will it affect you?

Question: What is this SIM binding?

answer: SIM binding is a security feature. This locks your messaging app to your SIM card. Its biggest advantage is that hackers or fraudsters will not be able to use your number on any other device.

Question: When will the rule of SIM binding come into effect?

answer: When you link an app through SIM binding, the app will open only when your registered SIM card is inside the phone. This rule will come into effect from March 1, 2026.

Question: Why is the government refusing to extend the deadline?

answer: Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has said that there is no plan to extend the deadline to follow the existing rules. He said that these rules have been brought to ensure national security and prevent fraud, and the government will not compromise on security matters.

Question: What will users have to do after March 1?

answer: Users will have to ensure that the SIM card linked to their WhatsApp number is installed in the same phone. The messaging app may stop working when the SIM card is removed.

Question: What do tech companies have to say on this?

answer: The industry association (IAMAI) has warned the government that the rule of logging out every six hours will create problems for professionals and users who share the same account.

Question: What action will be taken if companies do not follow the rules?

answer: According to the order of the Central Government, companies will have to submit a report within 120 days. If they do not do so, then action will be taken against them under the Telecommunications Act 2023, Telecom Cyber ​​Security Rules and other applicable laws.