New Delhi, Dec 1: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a directive requiring messaging platforms, including WhatsApp, to automatically log users out every six hours.
According to the new rules, the subscriber identity module (SIM) used during registration must remain linked to web-based platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Arattai, Snapchat, and ShareChat. As a result, companion services like WhatsApp Web will be forced to log users out every six hours once the mandate comes into effect.
Within 90 days, users will not be able to access these apps unless the original SIM is present in the device, as per the DoT circular. Platforms are required to submit a compliance report within four months.
The directive is expected to disrupt the continuous multi-device experience that users have become accustomed to, especially those who keep WhatsApp Web active throughout the workday. Officials said the rule aims to prevent misuse of messaging platforms, as cyber fraudsters often operated these services without having the SIM card, sometimes from outside India.
The new requirement is intended to ensure messaging activity can be traced back to a physical subscriber.
These changes stem from the Telecommunication Cybersecurity Amendment Rules, 2025, which introduced the concept of the Telecommunication Identifier User Entity. Under the updated rules, platforms will need to access the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) stored on the SIM, meaning global services like WhatsApp will need to modify their systems specifically for Indian users.
While telecom operators have supported the move, several tech companies have said that frequent SIM checks and mandatory six-hour logouts will impact user privacy, break multi-device functionality, and complicate access for people who travel.
