What It Means for Users in India and Abroad
The Government of India has issued major new directives that will change how apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal and others operate within the country. These rules fall under the Telecom Cybersecurity Amendment Rules, 2025 — and they introduce strict new requirements around identity verification and device usage.
What’s Changing?
1. SIM-Binding Made Mandatory
Messaging apps will now have to stay linked to the same SIM card used during registration.
- If the SIM is removed, becomes inactive, or is replaced, the app must stop working.
- This applies across all supported devices.
2. Forced Log-Out of Web/Desktop Sessions Every 6 Hours
Apps like WhatsApp Web will no longer allow long, continuous desktop login sessions.
- Users will be automatically logged out every six hours.
- Re-authentication (usually by scanning a QR code) will be required to continue the session.
These rules bring messaging apps under a compliance category previously used for telecom operators, increasing the government’s oversight on digital communication platforms.
Why the Government Introduced These Rules
Authorities say the previous system — where apps continued to work long after SIM removal — made it easier for scammers to misuse accounts.
The government believes the new rules will:
- Reduce fraud and impersonation
- Make it easier to trace misuse to a verified mobile number
- Strengthen overall cyber-security by linking identity, SIM, and device
Impact on Users — Especially Indians Living Abroad
For Indian users overseas (including New Zealand):
These changes are likely to cause disruption.
- Many NRIs use WhatsApp with their Indian number while using a local SIM abroad.
- With SIM-binding, the original Indian SIM must remain active in a device; otherwise, the account may stop working.
- Long workdays or remote setups will be affected by the 6-hour web logout rule.
For frequent travelers:
Switching SIMs (for roaming or travel) could cause messaging apps to stop functioning unless the original SIM is inserted.
For power users & professionals:
Those relying heavily on WhatsApp Web for business communication will need to re-log in multiple times a day.
What You Should Do Now
- Keep your original SIM active if it’s tied to WhatsApp or Telegram.
- Prepare for frequent re-logins if you use WhatsApp Web or Desktop.
- NRIs should plan ahead to avoid sudden loss of access while abroad.
- Businesses should update workflows, especially those that rely on long WhatsApp Web sessions.
FAQs:
What is SIM-binding on WhatsApp?
It means your account must stay connected to the same SIM used at registration. If removed, the app must stop working.
Why will WhatsApp Web log out every 6 hours?
Under new cybersecurity rules, all web/desktop sessions must auto-logout to reduce misuse.
How will this affect NRIs?
NRIs using an Indian number overseas may lose access unless the original SIM stays active.
When do these changes take effect?
Implementation will begin gradually across India after the new rules notification.
