Technology Desk: If you use messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, then this news to SIM Binding rule is important for you. Under the new government rule, messaging apps may have to make arrangements to maintain the connection between the user's account and the registered SIM card. Companies have been given time till December 31, 2026 to comply with this rule. However, this does not mean that WhatsApp will stop working on all phones from January 1, 2027.

What is the new rule of SIM binding?

SIM Binding means keeping the account of a messaging app linked to the SIM linked to the mobile number with which the account is registered. Currently, after verifying the WhatsApp account through OTP, users can in many cases use the app with the help of Wi-Fi even after removing the SIM.

This system may change under the new rules. This may affect users who remove the registered SIM from the phone or run messaging apps on devices without SIM.

Why does the government want to implement this rule?

The main objective of implementing SIM Binding is to help prevent cyber crime, fake accounts and misuse of mobile numbers. In many cases, fraudsters send fraudulent messages and calls to people using Indian mobile numbers.

Maintaining the connection between the registered SIM and the messaging account can help in account identification and cyber crime investigation. However, this rule does not guarantee a complete end to online fraud.

What will be the impact on those who use WhatsApp by removing their SIM?

If you use WhatsApp on Wi-Fi by removing the registered SIM from your phone, you may face problems after the implementation of the new rule. Similarly, those using WhatsApp on tablets or other devices without SIM may also have to face the new terms of the app.

However, its actual impact will depend on how the rules are implemented and what changes messaging apps make to their systems.

Will WhatsApp stop running on more than one device?

Many users use the same WhatsApp account on their phone as well as on their computer or other linked device. Such users also have questions in their minds regarding the SIM Binding rule.

But based on this rule alone, it would not be correct to say that WhatsApp will stop running on more than one device. For this, it will be necessary to see the official instructions issued by the app and the applicable conditions.

Will WhatsApp be shut down from January 1, 2027?

No, based on the available information it is not correct to claim that WhatsApp will stop working on the phones of all users from January 1, 2027. Companies have been given a deadline till December 31, 2026 to comply with the rules.

The potential impact of the rule is particularly to the connection between the SIM and the account. Therefore, users do not need to panic on the basis of any rumour.

What should users do now?

Keep the SIM of the mobile number linked to your WhatsApp account active.
Before switching off the mobile number or changing the SIM, check the account status.
If you run WhatsApp on a device without SIM, then keep an eye on the official update.
Do not share your personal information based on instructions given in any unknown link or message.