New Delhi10 hours ago
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The Central Government has extended the deadline for implementing the rules of ‘SIM binding’ to 31 December 2026. That means the new rules will now come into effect from January 1, 2027. Keeping in view the demand of the industry, the government has taken this step.
Under the new rules, messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal will not work if there is no SIM card in the mobile. Login WhatsApp on computer will also be logged out in 6 hours. The government claims that this will help in stopping cyber fraud.
Understand from the answers to 6 questions what is the new rule and how will it affect you?
Question 1. What is SIM binding?
answer. SIM binding is a safety net. This ‘locks’ your messaging app to your physical SIM card. Its biggest advantage is that no hacker or swindler will be able to use your number on any other device.
Question 2. When will the new rule of SIM binding come into effect?
answer. When you add an app with SIM binding, that app will open only if your registered SIM card is present inside the same phone. This rule will be effective from January 1, 2027.
Question 3. Why did the government refuse to extend the deadline?
answer. Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said that at present there is no thought of extending the deadline for following the rules.
He said that these rules have been implemented for national security and to prevent fraud and the government will not compromise on security issues.
Question 4. What will users have to do from January 1?
answer. Users will have to ensure that the SIM is installed in the same phone as their WhatsApp number. If the SIM card is taken out of the phone, the messaging app may stop working.
Question 5. What is the stand of tech companies and institutions on this?
answer. Industry Association (IAMAI) has warned the government that the rule of logging out every 6 hours will be troublesome for professionals. Also, those users who share the same account will also face problems.
Question 6. 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 regarding this within 120 days. If the rules are not followed, action will be taken under the Telecommunication Act 2023, Telecom Cyber Security Rules and other applicable laws.
