WhatsApp users beware: New government rules set to change the game of digital messaging..

Are you using WhatsApp on a number that isn't even on your phone? You may soon face difficulties. Yes, using WhatsApp without a SIM card is now going to be difficult in India. The government is going to strengthen and improve security regulations, requiring many messaging apps, including WhatsApp, to comply with the new Telecommunications Cyber ​​Security Amendment Rules 2025.

What are the new rules?
According to these rules issued by the Department of Telecommunications, every WhatsApp account will be required to have an active SIM card constantly connected. The government believes this will significantly help prevent online fraud, fake identities, and scams. Under the new rules, WhatsApp and other messaging platforms will have to implement this system within 90 days.

Auto-logout every six hours
WhatsApp Web will also auto-logout every six hours. After this, users will have to scan a new QR code to log in again. Officials say this move will significantly help prevent cybercriminals from operating anonymously.

What else is in the new rule?
The government has now classified WhatsApp under a new category called Telecommunications Identifier User Entity (TIUE). Simply put, WhatsApp will now have to follow security and identity verification rules similar to those of telecom companies. Mandatory SIM binding is the key to this rule, meaning WhatsApp will have to constantly verify whether the SIM card used to create the account is active on the phone. If the SIM is removed, replaced, or deactivated, WhatsApp will stop working.

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