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A new SIM binding rule will be implemented on messaging platforms from March 1st. This simply means that the SIM card used to create your account must be present and active in your phone. Failure to do so could result in your account being disabled. This rule applies to WhatsApp as well as other messaging apps like Telegram and Signal. WhatsApp has millions of users in India, which is why this is generating significant discussion.

First, decide which number you want to use as your permanent WhatsApp number. Many people have been using accounts with numbers that are no longer active or have been transferred to someone else. Once SIM binding is implemented, removing that SIM card from your phone could impact your account. Therefore, it's crucial to choose a primary SIM that you always have and that will serve as your official number going forward.

Another important thing is that your chosen SIM must be active. If it hasn't been recharged in months, activate it immediately with a valid plan. In the future, the system may periodically reconcile the SIM and account. If the number is disabled or the company has issued it to someone else, it may be difficult to recover the account.

The third and most important step is to back up your chats and data. In case of any technical issues after SIM binding, your old data will remain safe only if you have created a backup. It's best to include video files when creating a backup to ensure you don't miss any important media.

If you use an iPhone, go to the app's settings, select the "Backup" option in the "Chat" section, enable the "Include Videos" option, and create the backup immediately. Android users can similarly back up their entire data by going to Settings and using the "Chat Backup" option.

The upcoming change is being implemented for user safety, but a little carelessness could cost you years of your chat history. It's best to avoid waiting until the last minute and start preparing now.