TECH
WhatsApp Update: ...So will your WhatsApp be shut down too? Are you making this mistake too? Find out now
WhatsApp has become a part of everyone's daily life. We check WhatsApp messages within 10 seconds of waking up in the morning. But now some important changes have been made to its rules. One important update is that the SIM binding rule has been stated to be implemented from January 1, 2027. According to this rule, the SIM card of the mobile number used to use WhatsApp or other messaging apps will be required to be in the corresponding phone. The deadline for implementing this rule is December 31, 2026.
What is SIM binding rule?
Currently, many users remove the SIM card from their phone after entering the OTP and logging in to WhatsApp. WhatsApp can still be used using Wi-Fi or internet from another SIM. However, under the new SIM binding rule, the SIM card of the number on which WhatsApp is running will need to be in the phone. It's being said that this rule isn't limited to WhatsApp alone, but will also not apply to messaging apps like Telegram, Signal, ShareChat, JioChat, and Arattai.
What is the government's motive behind implementing the rules?
The primary purpose of this rule is to prevent digital fraud and cybercrime. Often, a SIM card is in one phone, while the messaging app associated with the same number is used on another device. This can make it difficult for investigating agencies to track suspicious devices. SIM binding will help to keep the relationship between a mobile number and its associated device more clear.
Relief for WhatsApp Web users:
Initial instructions included a requirement to automatically log out WhatsApp Web sessions every six hours. However, according to reports, this requirement has been removed and replaced with a risk-based system. Therefore, every user will no longer be required to log out every six hours. However, the requirement of having a SIM card connected to the phone will remain.
PC: NAVBHARAT TIMES
