WhatsApp will be disabled for millions of people starting today, here's the main reason

The Indian government's new rule, SIM binding, is going to disable millions of people's WhatsApp accounts. Under the new rule, smartphones must have an active SIM card to use the messaging app. Without an active SIM card, messaging apps like WhatsApp will be disabled.

The reason behind this is the government's new rule, called SIM binding. The deadline for this was February 28th, but it will come into effect today. The new rule will also apply to apps like Telegram and Signal.

Billions of people use WhatsApp in India

According to a report, there are approximately 853 million WhatsApp users in India. Many of these users use the messaging app on multiple smartphones using a WhatsApp-linked device.

Active SIM card is required

After SIM binding is implemented, WhatsApp will be disabled on smartphones that do not have an active SIM card. It is estimated that WhatsApp will be disabled on the phones of those who use a single SIM card. This number will be over 20 million.

DoT's SIM Binding Rule

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) will implement mandatory SIM binding under the Telecom Cyber Security (TCS) Rules. This rule has been introduced keeping in mind public safety. The government aims to curb cybercriminals through this rule.

What will be the benefits of the SIM Binding Rule?

• Cyber scammers will be curbed

• Cyber scammers will not be able to defraud with WhatsApp.

• Cases like digital arrests will decrease.

• SIM Binding rules are already in place for UPI apps.

What is WhatsApp's Global Login Model?

WhatsApp is essentially a global app and uses a global model for verification. This model is called Verify Once. Users must verify their account with an OTP, after which WhatsApp continues to function even if the SIM card is not inserted into their smartphone. Now, with the SIM binding rule in India, WhatsApp will no longer be able to do this.