The government’s directive was released in November 2025, stating that applications utilizing mobile numbers for user identification must link each account to the device’s SIM card.
This initiative ensures that these apps cannot be accessed without an active SIM, aiming to mitigate cyber fraud and the misuse of telecom identifiers, particularly those originating from outside India.
The web versions of these platforms are also impacted. According to the new rules, users of desktop or browser versions will be logged out automatically at least once every six hours. They will need to re-authenticate (usually by scanning a QR code) to continue utilizing the service.
In commenting on the extension, a DoT official informed Hindustan Times, “We will extend the compliance deadlines as companies have encountered technical hurdles, including testing and operating system updates. Firms have requested additional time to address these challenges.”
The official further noted that compliance will be phased, with Android users expected to see the changes first. iOS is facing technical obstacles, but Apple is reportedly working on a solution which is expected to be resolved by December.
The initial directive established a 90-day timeline for implementing SIM binding, set to conclude in February 2026, and required a compliance report within 120 days. As these deadlines were not met, the DoT had previously indicated that a deadline of March-end could be permissible.
However, after numerous requests from messaging platforms, the government is now considering a lengthier extension. An official announcement regarding the revised deadline is anticipated soon.
Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, is working closely with the DoT to ensure compliance, and the SIM binding feature is currently under testing on Android. Zoho’s Arattai is also collaborating with authorities to overcome technical issues, according to Jeri John, the app’s global product head.
Industry experts have expressed concerns regarding the practical difficulties of enforcing continuous SIM binding, especially across multiple devices and web logins. Despite these challenges, the government seems resolute in its decision and is progressing with the implementation of the directive.
