In an effort to strengthen digital security, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has reportedly extended the deadline for implementing SIM binding rules until the end of 2026. The decision comes as multiple stakeholders flagged technical and operational difficulties in meeting the earlier timeline.
The directive, first introduced in November 2025, aims to reduce digital fraud and identity misuse. It requires telecom-linked services to ensure that user identities remain continuously verified and connected to active SIM cards.
According to a report, companies were informed about the extension starting March 30. “The department has extended the timeline and informed all stakeholders,” an anonymous source said.
Several social media and messaging platforms, including Signal, Telegram, and WhatsApp, raised concerns about implementation challenges. Smartphone makers and OS providers like Apple and Google also requested more time.
The report highlighted that Apple cited technical limitations within its iOS system and sought an extended timeline to develop workable solutions. Meanwhile, WhatsApp’s parent company, Meta, is reportedly in discussions with the DoT to finalise a technically feasible approach.
WhatsApp is already working on adding SIM binding support in India. The feature, first reported in development in February, may require the app to verify that the user’s SIM card is present in the device. However, this feature has not yet been released in the public version.
SIM binding is part of the Telecommunication Cyber Security (TCS) Amendment Rules, 2025, an update to the 2024 framework. It mandates continuous SIM validation, ensuring that user accounts remain linked to the SIM used during registration. Initially, service providers were given 90 days to implement the rule.
The mandate applies to Telecommunication Identifier User Entities (TIUEs), which include platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Snapchat, and Messenger.
The move is aimed at tackling rising cases of digital impersonation, financial fraud, online scams, and identity misuse through messaging apps.
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