A major change is coming to the way popular messaging apps operate in India. The government has introduced a new SIM binding rule that will affect services such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Snapchat, ShareChat, JioChat, Arattai and Josh. The new rule aims to ensure that these apps work only when the correct SIM card is inserted in the device.
The Department of Telecommunications has directed these platforms to implement SIM binding within the next ninety days. This means an app should immediately stop working if the linked SIM is removed from the phone. At present, users can verify an account once and continue using it even after removing or replacing the SIM, or when connected only through Wi Fi.
The government says this flexibility has created a security gap. Officials claim that cybercriminals from outside India often use Indian mobile numbers to run scams. They reportedly log into messaging apps with old or inactive SIM linked accounts. Since the SIM is not physically in the device, it becomes difficult to track the user’s real location. Authorities believe SIM binding will close this loophole.
Telecom companies also support the rule. They say messaging apps only check SIM details during initial verification. Even if the SIM is later removed or deactivated, the app continues to work. This makes it easier for hackers, spammers and fraudsters to misuse phone numbers.
The new rules require apps to introduce two key measures. The first is continuous SIM presence. The app must regularly check if the original SIM card is still in the device. If the SIM is removed, the app must automatically stop working until the correct SIM is reinserted. The second requirement involves restricting web access. Services such as WhatsApp Web will need to log users out every six hours. To log back in, users must scan a QR code again so that the system can confirm the identity and device.
Apps must report to the government within one hundred twenty days to confirm they have implemented these changes.
For most users, daily usage may remain largely the same. Apps will rely more heavily on an active SIM, and there may be occasional relogins or checks. However, people who use these apps on secondary devices without a SIM or those who keep their SIM in one phone while using the app on another may experience interruptions.
Experts have mixed opinions. Some cybersecurity specialists say fraudsters often acquire SIM cards using fake or borrowed documents. They may use these SIMs briefly and discard them, suggesting that SIM binding may not fully prevent scams. Others point out that India already uses AI and video KYC for verification, yet fraudulent activity continues.
In simple terms, the government wants every communication app account to remain tied to a physical SIM at all times to improve traceability. Supporters believe this will reduce online fraud, while critics argue that the impact could be limited and might inconvenience regular users.
This marks a significant change in how messaging apps operate in India and will affect millions in the coming months.
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