New Instructions from the Government for WhatsApp and Telegram — Apps Will Work Only with a SIM!

SIM Binding Rule: New Instructions from the Government for WhatsApp and Telegram — Apps Will Work Only with a SIM!

The Central Government has issued key instructions to communication apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and Arattai. As per the latest directive from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), SIM binding has now been made mandatory. This means these apps will function only if a valid SIM card is present in the device.

These new guidelines are part of the Telecommunication Cybersecurity (Amendment) Rules, 2025, and all app-based communication service providers must implement them within 90 days.

🔒 What the New SIM Binding Rule Means

According to the amendment, such apps are now classified as Telecommunication Identifier User Entities (TIUEs).

• The app account must be linked to the SIM card in the device.

• If the SIM card is removed or changed, the app will automatically log out.

• When users access these apps via web browsers, they will be logged out every six hours, and re-login will require scanning a QR code from the primary device.

The main goal behind this move is to ensure that all communication services remain secure and traceable, preventing misuse or unauthorized access.

🧠 Why the Rule Was Introduced

Currently, apps like WhatsApp verify the SIM card only during installation. Even after removing or deactivating the SIM, users can continue to use the app — a loophole that has been exploited by cybercriminals abroad.

With the SIM binding rule in place, experts believe cyber fraud and impersonation cases will reduce significantly.

📱 Impact on Users

• Users operating these apps with deactivated or removed SIM cards will lose access.

• If you use WhatsApp Web or Telegram Web, you’ll need to re-login every six hours.

• This system will now function similarly to UPI payment apps, which also require an active SIM for operation.

Cybersecurity analysts say this step will strengthen India’s digital communication ecosystem and make it harder for criminals to misuse messaging platforms.