India’s new regulatory measures require WhatsApp users to log out from devices every six hours if the registered SIM card is not active on that device. Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia confirmed that the SIM binding directives issued in November 2025 remain effective, with a compliance deadline of February 28.
Key Requirements for WhatsApp
The rules mandate that WhatsApp log out users from inactive devices after six hours and cease functioning if the registered SIM is absent. Scindia emphasized these steps enhance national safety and security while combating fraud.
Minister Scindia’s Clarification
“As of now, there is no thought on an extension. The logout thing [after six hours] is only for multiple connections on the same instrument, when you go to your computer and so on and so forth … The rules stand as is at this point, and the reasons for that are very well-founded, which all of you are aware, not only from a fraud aspect, but also from a security aspect,” Scindia stated.
He added, “There are some issues which are national security issues and there are some issues which are revenue implication issues. On national security issues, there can be no compromise.”
WhatsApp’s Response and Concerns
On February 23, WhatsApp informed the Supreme Court that it does not access users’ personal messages or share end-to-end encrypted data. It remains uncertain whether the company will fully adhere to the six-hour logout requirement.
The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) has cautioned that the policy could disrupt professionals using WhatsApp Web and families sharing accounts.
