SIM-Binding Rule: Messaging Apps Must Work Only With Registered SIM From March

The Government of India recently announced new SIM-binding rule that will affect messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and others. The order, published by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), went into effect on March 1. The primary purpose of this rule is to improve cybersecurity and prevent online fraud involving mobile numbers.

According to the new rule, messaging platforms that employ mobile numbers for login must keep the registered SIM card in the user's primary device. If the SIM card associated with the account gets removed or deactivated, the messaging app may stop working. Companies were given 90 days to comply with the law, which was originally published on November 28.

Currently, most messaging apps validate users by sending a one-time password (OTP) to their mobile number upon signup. After initial verification, the app typically continues to function even if the SIM card is removed or changed. This flexibility has made it easier for users to access their accounts, particularly via web or desktop chat programs.

However, the new SIM-binding regulation changes the system. The amended guideline requires messaging services to verify that the app remains connected to the SIM card used during registration. If the SIM card is not in the device, users may be unable to access their accounts. 

The new restriction will also apply to services like WhatsApp Web and other desktop versions. The standards state that web sessions must automatically log out every six hours, requiring users to authenticate their accounts again. This step is intended to provide an additional layer of security. Some messaging services have already begun testing upgrades to comply with these standards. According to reports, WhatsApp beta versions now contain alerts that ask users to authenticate the presence of their registered SIM card in the phone.

However, some industry groups have raised concerns and challenged the rule in court. They argue that the regulation may go beyond the government’s authority. Despite this, the government maintains that the SIM-binding rule is necessary to prevent cyber fraud, phishing scams, and misuse of mobile numbers. Officials say that linking messaging apps directly to a verified SIM card issued through KYC verification will help improve traceability and make it harder for cybercriminals to operate anonymous accounts.

The new SIM-binding rule aims to strengthen security and reduce fraud on messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. By ensuring that every account stays linked to an active SIM card, authorities hope to improve traceability and prevent misuse of mobile numbers. As the rule comes into effect, users may notice small changes in how their messaging apps and web versions work.

Information referenced in this article is from Times of India