A fresh set of government guidelines is set to change how messaging apps operate across India. The new rules place stricter controls on app based communication services and could significantly affect both users and businesses.
The guidelines require certain messaging platforms to keep user accounts continuously linked to an active SIM card. They also introduce tighter controls on how these services function across multiple devices.
Government push to curb cyber fraud
The Indian government has defended the move as a step to tackle the growing number of cyber fraud cases. The telecom ministry said, “Mandatory continuous SIM device binding and periodic logout ensure that every active account and web session is anchored to a live, KYC verified SIM.”
According to the government, this approach will help restore traceability of numbers used in phishing scams, investment scams, digital arrests, and loan scams.
Concerns over service disruption
Digital advocacy groups, policy experts, and industry bodies representing major digital platforms have raised concerns about the new guidelines. They warn that the rules could amount to regulatory overreach and disrupt legitimate use of messaging apps.
This concern is especially strong in India, where WhatsApp has become central to personal communication and small business activity.
How the rules affect messaging apps
The guidelines must be implemented within 90 days of their issuance and will apply to all major messaging platforms, including WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal.
Under the new rules, apps must remain linked to the SIM card used at the time of sign up. Web and desktop versions will also be required to log out every 6 hours, with users needing to reconnect through a QR code based process.
WhatsApp is expected to feel the maximum impact due to its massive user base of over 500 million users in India. The platform is deeply embedded in daily life, with 94% of its monthly active users opening the app daily in November.
This usage level is far higher than in the United States, where only 59% of monthly active users open the app daily.
Challenges for small businesses
Many small businesses rely heavily on WhatsApp Business. These businesses often register using a SIM linked phone while managing customer chats through web or desktop versions.
Mandatory SIM binding and frequent forced logouts could disrupt workflows related to orders, customer support, and engagement.
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