Panjabi Nature

India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a new directive under the Telecommunication Cybersecurity Amendment Rules, 2025, requiring WhatsApp Web and other web-based messaging apps to automatically log out users every six hours. The update aims to enforce the new “SIM binding” rule, which ensures that the registered SIM card remains physically active in the user’s device to curb cyber fraud and misuse of messaging platforms. After each logout, users will need to re-authenticate their web session by scanning a QR code. While the government says the move strengthens digital security, the change may disrupt daily workflows for businesses and professionals who rely on uninterrupted desktop messaging. Platforms have 90 days to comply, with rollout expected early next year.