WhatsApp Web to log Indian users out every 6 hours after new govt rules
The Indian government has introduced a new directive that will change the way we use messaging platforms like WhatsApp on our computers. According to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), WhatsApp and other messaging platforms’ web services won’t be available uninterrupted to users in India. The users are likely to be logged out every six hours, as per the government directive. This move is aimed at combating the rising digital fraud in the country.
The new rule mandates SIM binding, which means that users will have to bind their mobile number with their computer or laptop to use the web version of these messaging platforms. This will help the government to track and identify the users who are using these platforms for fraudulent activities. The OTT messaging platforms, including WhatsApp, are required to ensure compliance with the directive within 90 days.
The government’s decision to introduce this new rule is a result of the increasing number of digital fraud cases in the country. With the rise of online transactions and digital payments, the number of fraud cases has also increased. The government believes that by introducing SIM binding, it can curb the rising digital fraud and ensure a safer online experience for users.
So, how will this new rule affect the users? For starters, users will have to log in to their WhatsApp Web account every six hours. This means that if you are using WhatsApp Web on your computer or laptop, you will be automatically logged out after six hours. You will then have to log in again using your mobile number and the OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your phone.
This new rule may cause some inconvenience to users who are used to accessing their WhatsApp account on their computers without any interruptions. However, the government believes that this is a necessary step to ensure the safety and security of users. The government is also working on introducing other measures to combat digital fraud, including the introduction of a new cybercrime reporting portal.
The introduction of SIM binding is not just limited to WhatsApp. All OTT messaging platforms, including Facebook Messenger, Telegram, and Signal, will have to comply with the new rule. This means that users of these platforms will also have to log in every six hours to continue using the web version of these platforms.
The new rule has raised some concerns among users and experts. Some have expressed concerns about the privacy and security of users, while others have questioned the effectiveness of the new rule in combating digital fraud. However, the government is confident that the new rule will help to reduce the number of digital fraud cases in the country.
In conclusion, the new government rule that mandates SIM binding for WhatsApp Web and other messaging platforms is a significant development in the fight against digital fraud. While it may cause some inconvenience to users, the government believes that it is a necessary step to ensure the safety and security of users. As the OTT messaging platforms work to comply with the new rule, users will have to get used to logging in every six hours to continue using the web version of these platforms.
The introduction of this new rule is a reminder of the importance of online safety and security. As we increasingly rely on digital platforms for our daily transactions and communications, it is essential that we take steps to protect ourselves from digital fraud. The government’s initiative to introduce SIM binding is a step in the right direction, and it will be interesting to see how it plays out in the coming months.
For now, users will have to get used to the new normal of logging in every six hours to use WhatsApp Web and other messaging platforms. While it may be a minor inconvenience, it is a small price to pay for the added security and safety that the new rule provides.