The Department of Telecommunications issued the directive on November 28, 2025, asserting that this “SIM binding” requirement is essential to combat digital fraud and enhance national security.
Under the new rules, messaging platforms must implement two key technical requirements within 90 days.
First, applications will function exclusively when an active SIM card is present in the user’s device, eliminating the current capability where apps continue working after SIM removal or deactivation.
Second, web versions of these applications must automatically log users out every six hours, requiring re-authentication through QR code linking to verify active SIM connection.
All app-based communication service providers must submit compliance reports to India’s Telecom Department within 120 days.
Non-compliance carries penalties under the Telecommunications Act 2023 and Telecom Cyber Security Rules.
Currently, messaging apps verify SIM information during initial installation but continue functioning independently afterward.
The government emphasizes that continuous SIM binding will trace fraudulent activities effectively.
India recorded cyber-fraud losses exceeding Rs 22,800 crore in 2024 alone, with messaging apps frequently exploited for phishing, investment scams, digital arrest threats, and loan fraud schemes.
By anchoring every active account to a KYC-verified, traceable SIM card, authorities aim to reduce anonymity that criminals exploit for cross-border digital crimes.
The directive clarifies that roaming users whose SIM cards remain in their devices will experience no service disruption.
India’s telecom operators, represented by COAI (Cellular Operators Association of India), which includes Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea, support the mandate.
They argue that continuous SIM linkage ensures complete accountability and closes “long-persistent gaps enabling misuse and anonymity,” strengthening national security and citizen protection.
Conversely, the Broadband India Forum (BIF), representing major technology companies including Meta and Google, expressed serious concerns.
BIF contends that the directive overreaches regulatory authority, questioning its jurisdiction and compatibility with the Telecom Act.
The industry body warned of significant consumer impact and risk, urging the Centre to pause implementation timelines and conduct broader stakeholder consultations before proceeding.
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The post India’s New SIM-Binding Rule for WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, and Other Messaging Platforms appeared first on Cyber Security News.
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