SIM binding mandatory for messaging apps from January 1, 2027; app stops working once SIM is removed

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has asked messaging and communication apps to comply with the new SIM binding rule, which will come into force on January 1, 2027. Under it, messaging apps will have to introduce SIM-based login verification.

The aim is to keep a user's account linked to the active SIM card of the registered Indian mobile number. The DoT says the decision has been taken to stop online scams.

The DoT issued the SIM binding directions on November 28, 2025, under the Telecommunications Cyber Security Rules, 2024. The government made the order public on December 1, 2025, through the Press Information Bureau (PIB). Initially, 90 days were given to implement the rule. The government later extended the deadline to December 31, 2026.

The rule was initially issued for apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, Arattai, ShareChat, Josh, JioChat and Signal. It will apply to apps that offer communication services and use an Indian mobile number to identify users and provide the service.

Under the rule, messaging apps must remain linked to the active SIM card of the user's registered Indian mobile number. If the SIM card is removed from the phone or is not active, the app will not work on that device. This means the app will stop working as soon as the SIM is taken out of the device, and the user will not be able to use it.

According to available information, a tracker feature will be introduced on WhatsApp. It will check whether there is a SIM in your phone. People who often remove their SIM card and put it in another phone may be affected by the new rules. The government says the rules will help curb digital scams.

A new rule will also be issued for web versions. This is an important update for users who use the web version of the app. Earlier, users had to log in again on the web version after a fixed time. The government has now decided to bring in a risk-based rule.