These big changes will happen in WhatsApp from March 1, central government implemented rules

New Delhi: The Central Government has refused to extend the February 28 deadline for implementing the rules of ‘SIM binding’. Under this new rule, now messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal will not work unless there is a registered SIM card in the mobile. Apart from this, if you login to WhatsApp on computer, you will be logged out within 6 hours. The government claims that these rules will help in preventing cyber fraud.

What is SIM binding?

SIM binding is a security measure that ‘locks’ your messaging apps to your physical SIM card. Its biggest advantage is that if any hacker or fraudster tries to use your number, he will not be able to use it on any other device. This measure makes the security of your personal information stronger.

When will the new rules come into effect?

The government has clarified that these rules will be effective from March 1, 2026. When you add an app through SIM binding, that app will work only if your registered SIM card is present in the same phone. If the SIM card is taken out of the phone the messaging app will stop working.

Why was the deadline not extended?

Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said that at present no consideration has been given to extending the deadline for implementing these rules. He said that these rules have been made for national security and to prevent fraud, and the government will not compromise on this issue.

What will users have to do from March 1?

Users will have to ensure that the SIM of the number to which their WhatsApp or other messaging apps is linked is installed in the same phone. Apps may stop working if the SIM card is taken out of the phone.

What is the stance of tech companies and institutions?

Industry Association (IAMAI) has warned the government that the rule of logging out every 6 hours will cause problems for professionals and users who share the same account with multiple people.

What if companies don’t follow the rules?

The central government has ordered that companies will have to submit a report on following this rule within 120 days. If companies do not follow the rules, action will be taken against them under the Telecommunication Act 2023 and Telecom Cyber ​​Security Rules.

Scindia gave information on two more issues

1.Launching of Starlink:
Scindia said that satellite internet service ‘Starlink’ has not yet done the necessary demos in front of government security agencies. The company will have to prove that it can shut down internet access outside Indian borders and give up control over the network if needed.

2. BSNL officer’s case:
   Recently, BSNL Director Vivek Banjal’s visit to Prayagraj was in controversies. It was said in the government order that about 50 employees should be arranged for their service. Responding to the matter, Scindia said that a ‘show cause’ notice has been issued. He said that such orders are not acceptable in the 21st century and we will not take it lightly.

Amidst these controversies, Scindia also said that government telecom company BSNL is currently in a better position financially and the company is generating “healthy cash flow”.

Efforts are being made to further strengthen cyber security with this new SIM binding rule of the Central Government. However, controversies and concerns are also being raised regarding this in some areas, which the government will have to pay attention to.

The company will have to show that it can shut down internet access outside Indian borders. Can give control over the network if needed.

2. BSNL officer’s case

Recently, a government order regarding BSNL Director Vivek Banjal’s visit to Prayagraj had gone viral. In this, it was asked to arrange about 50 employees for their service.

Scindia said that a ‘show cause’ notice has been issued in this matter. It is absolutely unacceptable to issue such an order in 21st century India. We will not let it go just like that.

Amidst the controversies, Minister Scindia also said that the government telecom company BSNL is currently doing well financially and the company is generating “healthy cash flow”.