BIF pushes back on DoT's sim-binding rule for messaging apps
The Broadband India Forum (BIF) has spoken out against a new government rule that would force messaging apps like WhatsApp to link accounts to SIM cards and log users out every six hours.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) says this will help stop misuse of Indian phone numbers from abroad, but BIF argues the move might actually go beyond what current telecom laws allow.
Why BIF thinks it's a problem
BIF—whose members include WhatsApp and Meta—says this rule could make life tough for non-resident Indians, travelers using Wi-Fi, people with multiple SIMs, or anyone who needs constant access.
They're also worried about how often users would have to re-authenticate, which could be especially hard for older adults or those less comfortable with tech.
Instead, BIF wants a technical working group set up first so any security rules balance safety with user convenience.