WhatsApp Web to log Indian users out every 6 hours after new govt rules
The Indian government has introduced a new set of rules aimed at combating rising digital fraud, and this is set to impact the way Indians use messaging platforms like WhatsApp. As per the new directive issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), WhatsApp and other Over-the-Top (OTT) messaging platforms will be required to implement SIM binding, which will lead to users being logged out of their web services every six hours.
This move is part of the government’s efforts to curb the increasing instances of digital fraud, which have been on the rise in recent years. The DoT has mandated that all OTT messaging platforms, including WhatsApp, must ensure compliance with the new directive within 90 days. This means that users will no longer be able to enjoy uninterrupted access to their messaging platforms’ web services, and will instead be required to log in again every six hours.
The new rule is aimed at preventing the misuse of OTT messaging platforms for fraudulent activities, such as phishing and spamming. By requiring users to log in again every six hours, the government hopes to prevent hackers and scammers from using stolen SIM cards or fake identities to carry out their nefarious activities. The move is also expected to help reduce the incidence of online harassment and bullying, which have become increasingly common on social media platforms.
The SIM binding requirement will apply to all OTT messaging platforms, including WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Telegram, among others. This means that users will need to verify their SIM cards with their messaging platforms in order to use their web services. The verification process is expected to involve a one-time password (OTP) sent to the user’s registered mobile number, which will need to be entered on the web platform to complete the login process.
The impact of this new rule is likely to be significant, particularly for users who rely heavily on messaging platforms for their work or personal communication. Many users rely on WhatsApp Web to stay connected with their colleagues, friends, and family members, and the need to log in again every six hours may cause some inconvenience. However, the government believes that the benefits of the new rule, including enhanced security and reduced digital fraud, outweigh the minor inconvenience caused to users.
It’s worth noting that the new rule is part of a broader effort by the government to regulate the use of OTT messaging platforms in India. The government has been concerned about the lack of accountability and transparency on these platforms, and has been pushing for greater regulation and oversight. The SIM binding requirement is just one aspect of this broader effort, and is expected to be followed by other measures aimed at enhancing security and reducing digital fraud.
In recent years, India has seen a significant rise in digital fraud, with many cases involving the use of OTT messaging platforms. The government believes that the new rule will help to prevent such instances, and will also help to reduce the incidence of online harassment and bullying. The move is also expected to enhance the overall security of the online ecosystem, and will help to protect users from cyber threats.
The reaction to the new rule has been mixed, with some users expressing concern about the inconvenience caused by the need to log in again every six hours. However, others have welcomed the move, saying that it will help to enhance security and reduce digital fraud. The OTT messaging platforms themselves have not commented on the new rule, but are expected to comply with the directive within the stipulated timeframe.
In conclusion, the new rule requiring WhatsApp and other OTT messaging platforms to log Indian users out every six hours is a significant development that is expected to have a major impact on the way Indians use these platforms. While the rule may cause some inconvenience to users, the government believes that the benefits of enhanced security and reduced digital fraud outweigh the minor disruption caused. As the Indian government continues to grapple with the challenges of regulating the online ecosystem, this move is likely to be just the beginning of a broader effort to enhance security and accountability on OTT messaging platforms.
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