Tech: How will the SIM Binding rule change the way WhatsApp and Telegram are used? You will have to do this..

New SIM Binding Rule India: If you use WhatsApp, Telegram, or other social media apps for messaging and chatting, the rules are about to change for you. The Indian government has implemented a major rule for WhatsApp, Telegram, and other messaging platforms. Under the new SIM Binding process, the SIM card used to register an account must be the same SIM card active in the phone. This change was made under the Telecom Communication Security (TCS) Rules 2024 and aims to curb rising online fraud. All messaging apps will have to implement this rule within 90 days.

What is the SIM Binding Rule, and how will it work?
According to the new government directives, all messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal will now have to implement a SIM-based login verification system. This means that users must use the app on the same active SIM card used for registration. The DoT has also clarified that SIM cards will be validated for 90 consecutive days, and accounts running on dead or inactive numbers will be immediately blocked. This step is being taken to ensure users' identities are always verified.

Why is the government making this change

According to the DoT, fraud and scams using fake numbers are rapidly increasing on platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. Many people keep the apps active even after their original SIMs is deactivated, making it easier for criminals to use untraceable numbers. The SIM Binding rule will ensure that accounts are linked to the actual telecom subscriber who created them. This will help curb cyber fraud.

Which apps will be subject to the new SIM-based login rule?
This rule will apply to all messaging apps categorized as Telecommunication Identifier User Entities. These include platforms like WhatsApp, Meta Messenger, Telegram, Signal, Snapchat, JioChat, Josh, and Arattai. All of them will have to implement the SIM Binding system within 90 days. Additionally, users using these apps on laptops or PCs will be required to periodically complete SIM-based authentication.

What will be the impact on users?
Users should simply ensure the SIM card used to create their WhatsApp or Telegram account is active. If the SIM card is disabled or deactivated, the account will be inaccessible. Those who use the same number on multiple devices will also need to verify it periodically. The government claims this step is crucial for user safety and fraud prevention.

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