SIM-binding norms in India: Will WhatsApp Web log you out every six hours?

New Delhi: Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has confirmed that the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) will enforce its November 2025 SIM-binding directives for messaging platforms, including WhatsApp, with the compliance deadline set for February 28.

Under the new telecom security rules, messaging applications must ensure that users are automatically logged out of web-based services such as WhatsApp Web every six hours when accessed on multiple devices. In addition, the apps must verify that the registered SIM card linked to the account is provisioned in the user’s primary mobile device. Services are required to stop functioning if the registered SIM is not present.

The government has said the SIM-binding norms are aimed at strengthening national security and curbing digital fraud. No extension to the compliance deadline is currently under consideration.

WhatsApp tests SIM verification feature in India

WhatsApp’s parent company, Meta, is reportedly testing a feature in beta versions of the app that notifies users that Indian regulations require verification of whether their registered SIM remains in the device. It remains unclear whether the company will implement the six-hour automatic logout rule for web sessions.

Industry body Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) has previously flagged concerns that frequent forced logouts could disrupt professionals who depend on WhatsApp Web and households that share a single account across devices.

The DoT has maintained that national security considerations take precedence in the enforcement of the SIM-binding and multi-device usage regulations.

Starlink launch pending security clearance

On the proposed launch of SpaceX-owned Starlink’s satellite internet service in India, the Minister said the company has yet to complete mandatory security demonstrations using trial spectrum allocated for testing.

Before commercial rollout, Starlink must demonstrate compliance with Indian security requirements. This is expected to include enabling lawful interception access for authorised agencies, disabling user terminals outside Indian territory and suspending services when directed by authorities.

Spectrum allocation for Starlink will also need to be finalised. The DoT is expected to complete administrative processes ahead of the company’s security clearance.

Show-cause notice issued over BSNL director visit arrangements

The Minister also addressed controversy surrounding extensive arrangements reportedly made for a proposed visit by BSNL Director Vivek Banzal to Prayagraj. An internal order detailing deployment of nearly 50 personnel for the visit had circulated widely.

The government has issued a show-cause notice in the matter, stating that appropriate action will follow. The arrangements were described as unacceptable.

On Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited’s financial position, the Minister said the state-owned telecom operator is generating stable cash flows.

The developments come amid broader reforms in India’s telecom sector focused on digital security compliance, satellite broadband entry and operational oversight of public sector telecom entities.