DoT Mandates SIM-Binding for Messaging Apps; Auto-Logout Rule May See Changes

• DoT issued a directive on November 28, making SIM-binding mandatory for messaging apps like WhatsApp to combat cybercrime and national security threats.
• The move aims to prevent sensitive information theft and ensure app control by the SIM owner, with re-authentication preventing long session vulnerabilities.
• Messaging apps object to the current 6-hour auto-logout rule for web/desktop versions, citing user inconvenience and potential international roaming costs.
• Government officials indicate the 6-hour auto-logout limit for web versions might be extended to 12 or 18 hours, but not beyond 24 hours.
• The decision follows recommendations from a MHA-formed technical group and concerns from security agencies, citing over ₹22,800 crore in cyber fraud losses in 2024.

Why It Matters: DoT enforces SIM-binding for messaging apps to enhance security, with potential flexibility on auto-logout.