WhatsApp SIM-binding: Messaging platform WhatsApp has started testing SIM-binding in India. According to media reports, many users have started receiving in-app notifications, in which it is written that due to local rules, WhatsApp will have to confirm the presence of the SIM card in the device. Currently this feature is in trial and has not been rolled out. Let us tell you that the Government of India had issued an order in November last year saying that all messaging platforms will have to follow SIM-binding rules. Recently the deadline for SIM binding has been extended till the end of this year.
What is SIM-binding?
SIM binding means that messaging apps can only be accessed on a device that has the same SIM that was used to register for that platform. If that SIM is removed from that device, becomes inactive or another SIM is inserted in it, then the app will automatically log out the user. Now, through this new feature, WhatsApp will check every few hours whether the account is being operated from a device with a registered SIM or not. This will help in preventing unauthorized access.
What effect will SIM-binding have on WhatsApp users?
At present, this change will not affect WhatsApp users and they will be able to access the app like before. Currently this feature is in the testing phase and it may take time to roll out. Once the feature is rolled out, users will be able to access WhatsApp only on the device which has a registered SIM. This may cause problems to those users who depend on secondary devices or keep changing SIM cards continuously.
90 day deadline extended till December 31, 2026
Last year, when the government made SIM binding mandatory, messaging platforms were given 90 days to comply with it. In response, messaging platforms and companies like Apple and Google had demanded extension of time from the government citing technical issues in implementing it. After this, the government has extended the deadline till the end of this year. Meanwhile, companies will get enough time to make necessary changes in their software and services.
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