The Division of Telecommunications has given messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, Sign, and Snapchat 90 days to implement “SIM binding”—a requirement that may cease these apps from working if customers take away the SIM card initially used for registration. The directive, efficient from February 2026, additionally mandates that internet variations of those apps sign off customers each six hours, requiring recent authentication by way of QR code.Officers say the measure targets cyber fraudsters who exploit the present system the place apps proceed functioning even after SIM playing cards are eliminated, changed, or deactivated. The federal government argues that criminals working from outdoors India are utilizing this loophole to commit cyber fraud and impersonation scams.
What SIM binding means and the way it will work
SIM binding requires apps to constantly confirm that the registered SIM card stays energetic and inserted within the system. At the moment, messaging apps solely confirm a person’s cell quantity as soon as throughout preliminary setup. After that single verification, the applying works independently—even when the SIM is eliminated or changed.Below the brand new Telecommunication Cybersecurity Modification Guidelines 2025, these platforms have been labeled as Telecommunication Identifier Consumer Entities (TIUEs). This classification represents a significant enlargement of the DoT’s jurisdiction, extending regulatory oversight past conventional telecom operators to any service utilizing cell numbers for person identification.The Mobile Operators Affiliation of India, representing personal telecom firms, has supported the necessity for SIM binding, arguing that the present one-time verification creates alternatives for misuse.
Challenges for vacationers and multi-device customers
Whereas the directive seeks to curb fraudlent customers, it might create vital friction for respectable customers. Folks touring overseas who use native SIM playing cards will not have the ability to proceed utilizing providers like WhatsApp with out extra registration. Those that depend on tablets or use messaging apps throughout a number of units could face fixed disruptions.The requirement to sign off from internet variations each six hours might disrupt workflows, particularly in skilled settings the place workers use WhatsApp on computer systems with out their telephones close by.For WhatsApp alone, which has over 500 million customers in India, implementing this transformation would require vital re-engineering of the service to adjust to laws distinctive to India.
Meta and different companies query the proposal
Business sources have known as the directions “problematic,” noting that no feasibility research or session was carried out earlier than these instructions had been issued. Critics query whether or not SIM binding will successfully curb fraud, since many scammers already use SIM playing cards procured by means of cast or stolen identification paperwork.The Web and Cellular Affiliation of India, representing Meta and different digital companies, has characterised the amended guidelines as representing a “clear overreach” with broad implications for digital companies throughout fintech, e-commerce, mobility, and social media.Messaging platforms now have till early 2026 to adjust to the brand new necessities or face potential regulatory motion.