WhatsApp Web to log Indian users out every 6 hours after new govt rules
In a significant move to combat rising digital fraud, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has mandated SIM binding for messaging platforms, including WhatsApp. This new directive is set to impact the way Indian users access WhatsApp Web, with the service likely to log users out every six hours. The government’s move aims to enhance security and prevent fraudulent activities, but it may cause inconvenience to users who rely on the web version of the popular messaging platform.
The DoT has directed Over-The-Top (OTT) messaging platforms, including WhatsApp, to ensure compliance with the SIM binding directive within 90 days. This means that users will be required to bind their SIM card to their WhatsApp account, which will help verify their identity and prevent unauthorized access. While this move is intended to curb digital fraud, it will undoubtedly affect the user experience, particularly for those who use WhatsApp Web for extended periods.
What is SIM binding, and how does it work?
SIM binding is a process that links a user’s SIM card to their WhatsApp account. This ensures that only the authorized user can access their account, even if someone else tries to use their phone number or login credentials. The binding process typically involves a one-time password (OTP) sent to the user’s registered mobile number, which must be entered to complete the verification process.
Once the SIM binding is in place, WhatsApp will be able to detect and prevent unauthorized access to a user’s account. If someone tries to access the account from a different device or location, WhatsApp will automatically log out the user and prompt them to re-verify their identity. This added layer of security will help prevent phishing attacks, identity theft, and other types of digital fraud.
Impact on WhatsApp Web users
The new directive will significantly impact WhatsApp Web users in India. Since the SIM binding is tied to the user’s mobile device, WhatsApp Web will not be able to maintain a continuous session. As a result, users will be automatically logged out every six hours, and they will need to re-verify their identity to continue using the service.
This may cause inconvenience to users who rely on WhatsApp Web for work or other purposes. For example, users who access WhatsApp Web on their desktop or laptop for extended periods may need to re-login every six hours, which can disrupt their workflow. Similarly, users who use WhatsApp Web for customer support or other business purposes may need to find alternative solutions to maintain a continuous conversation with their clients.
Why is the government imposing these rules?
The Indian government has been concerned about the rising incidence of digital fraud, particularly on messaging platforms like WhatsApp. With the increasing use of online services, there has been a corresponding rise in phishing attacks, identity theft, and other types of cybercrime. The government believes that SIM binding will help prevent these types of fraudulent activities by ensuring that only authorized users can access their accounts.
The DoT has been working to strengthen the security of online services, and the SIM binding directive is part of this effort. By mandating SIM binding for OTT messaging platforms, the government aims to create a more secure online environment for Indian users. While this move may cause some inconvenience to users, it is intended to provide an additional layer of protection against digital fraud.
Conclusion
The new government directive mandating SIM binding for OTT messaging platforms, including WhatsApp, will have a significant impact on Indian users. While the move is intended to enhance security and prevent digital fraud, it will undoubtedly cause some inconvenience to users who rely on WhatsApp Web. As the 90-day compliance period begins, users can expect to see changes in the way they access WhatsApp Web, with automatic logouts every six hours becoming the new norm.
As the Indian government continues to work towards creating a more secure online environment, users will need to adapt to these changes. While it may take some time to get used to the new system, the added security features will ultimately benefit users in the long run. For more information on this development, please visit: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sci-tech/whatsapp-web-automatic-log-out-six-hourse-reason-10394142/lite/
About the Author
