The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed messaging and communication apps to comply with 'SIM-binding' regulations, effective January 1, 2027. Under these rules, apps must implement SIM-based login verification. The objective is to ensure that a user's account remains linked to an active SIM card associated with their registered Indian mobile number. The DoT states that this measure is intended to help curb online scams.

SIM-Binding Rules for Messaging Apps

The DoT issued these SIM-binding directives on November 28, 2025, under the Telecom Cyber ​​Security Rules, 2024. The government subsequently made this order public on December 1, 2025, through the Press Information Bureau (PIB). Initially, a 90-day window was provided for implementation; however, the deadline for compliance was later extended to December 31, 2026. The scope initially included apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, Arattai, ShareChat, Josh, JioChat, and Signal. These regulations apply to apps that offer communication services and utilize Indian mobile numbers for user identification or the provision of services.

How SIM-Binding Will Work for Apps Like WhatsApp and Telegram

Under the SIM-binding mandate, a messaging app must remain linked to the active SIM card associated with the user's registered Indian mobile number. If the SIM card is removed or becomes inactive, the app will cease to function on that device. Service providers are required to implement specific technical measures to facilitate this; consequently, if a user removes the SIM card from their device, they will no longer be able to access the app.

Additionally, regulations have been introduced for web-based versions of these applications. Previously, users accessing the web version were required to re-link their accounts at specified intervals. The government has now shifted to a risk-based approach for implementing these requirements. According to reports, several messaging apps have already begun preparations to comply with these regulations. WhatsApp, for instance, is set to introduce a tracker feature that will verify whether a SIM card is present in the user's phone.

This rule is likely to have the greatest impact on individuals who frequently remove their SIM cards to switch between different phones. However, the government maintains that these measures could help reduce digital scams. The Department of Telecommunications noted that SIM-linked verification has already been successfully implemented for banking and UPI applications.

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