WhatsApp Alert: App May Soon Stop Working Without Active SIM

New Delhi: WhatsApp, the most used messaging app worldwide, can bring a big change. The company is now testing the SIM verification feature, after the implementation of which the app will not be able to be used without an active SIM card. This feature is specifically designed to strengthen security and prevent misuse.

Is this just an extra security step?

WhatsApp is bringing this feature for restless users, in which it will be necessary to have an active SIM card in the phone every time for login or account verification. That is, if the SIM is not present in the phone whose number is registered on WhatsApp, then the app may stop working in some cases or you will have to re-verify by inserting the SIM.

Why has this change occurred?

WhatsApp has been implementing more security measures for some time now to deal with cases of account hacking, fraud and participant identification. SIM verification is also being considered as a step in this direction, due to which it will become difficult to use WhatsApp on any number without SIM equipped phone.

When will this feature be implemented?

The feature is currently in the testing phase and the company is gradually testing it on select markets and users. This feature will be openly available to all users only after the official announcement. At present, it has not been decided for the users by when it will be rolled out, but it is being told that it can be announced soon.

Will all users have to do SIM verification?

Existing users will be able to continue their accounts as they are, but in future, it will be necessary to have an active SIM at the time of every new verification. The company has indicated that if the SIM registered in a phone is removed, the app will ask for a new verification in case the SIM is changed, to ensure that the user is the real owner.

Will this affect the user experience?

Some experts believe that this feature is useful in terms of security, but it can cause difficulty for those who often change SIMs or use the second SIM in a dual-SIM phone. Many users will have to go through the verification process every time they want to use the app, which may require them to take additional steps.

What has been the stance of WhatsApp?

The company has already implemented security-based features like two-step verification and very strong encryption. The SIM verification feature is considered to be a part of this series, which can increase the magnetic security of the user account and prevent duplicate or unauthorized use.