The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has told the Supreme Court that once a cellular mobile telephone number is deactivated for non-usage or disconnected on the request of the subscriber, it is not allocated to a new subscriber for at least a period of 90 days.
Justice Khanna and Justice Bhatti's bench noted that the previous subscriber must safeguard their privacy.
In addition, the Court highlighted that subscribers possess the means to prevent the potential misuse of their WhatsApp data. This can be achieved through a two-step process.
Firstly, subscribers should delete their WhatsApp account that is associated with their previous phone number. By doing so, they can effectively disassociate their personal data from the old number, rendering it inaccessible for any potential misuse.
Secondly, subscribers are encouraged to erase any WhatsApp data that may be stored on their local device, as well as in cloud or drive storage. This comprehensive approach ensures that no residual information remains accessible, further safeguarding their privacy and personal data.
In essence, the Court's recommendation underscores the importance of personal responsibility in maintaining the privacy of one's data. By taking these precautionary steps, subscribers can significantly reduce the risk of their WhatsApp data falling into the wrong hands and being misused. This proactive approach empowers individuals to protect their sensitive information and maintain control over their digital privacy.
WhatsApp informed the Court that it employs a monitoring system for recycled phone numbers. In cases where an account remains inactive for a period of 45 days, and subsequently, the account is reactivated on a different mobile device, WhatsApp takes action to delete the data associated with the previous account.
The Court, after recording these observations, resolved a writ petition filed in 2021 that had expressed concerns regarding the potential misuse of mobile numbers once they are disconnected or deactivated
TAGS: WhatsApp Court Informed Recycled phone numbers Account inactivity 45 days Account activation
