New Delhi — In a sweeping cybersecurity move, the Indian government has announced that users of popular communication platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and Snapchat will soon face new login restrictions on smartphones and desktop devices. The policy, set to take effect within the next three months, aims to curb rising instances of cyber fraud carried out through app-based communication services.
According to a directive issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), users must periodically re-verify their identities through QR code authentication or with the SIM card that was originally linked to the communication app. The mandate requires that devices without an active SIM card will not be allowed long-term login sessions.
Officials say the new protocol is a response to misuse of encrypted messaging apps by cybercrime networks, many of which operate from outside India. The circular noted that app-based services were being “misused from outside the country to commit cyber fraud,” especially by groups involved in phishing, financial scams and impersonation.
Under the new rules, users logged into communication apps on laptops or desktops will be automatically logged out if the device does not connect through an active mobile SIM every six hours. The policy also mandates smartphone users to periodically re-link their apps using QR codes or SIM verification.
The DoT has instructed companies operating these services to report compliance within 120 days and to introduce features that curb identity spoofing, account masking, and unauthorized multi-device logins.
Cybersecurity experts say the directive marks one of the most significant regulatory interventions in India’s digital communication landscape, as the government attempts to balance privacy, convenience, and national security concerns.
Telecom companies have also been asked to assist in monitoring the use of Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards to identify high-risk patterns that may indicate fraud activity. The new guidelines are expected to impact millions of users across India who rely on messaging platforms for both personal and business communication.
