India’s New SIM Binding Law Reshapes WhatsApp and Messaging App Usage

The Indian government has introduced new regulations that require WhatsApp accounts to be linked continuously with an active SIM card inserted in the device. This law aims to curb online fraud, impersonation, and misuse of messaging apps by ensuring that accounts are tied to verified mobile numbers. As a result, WhatsApp users will no longer be able to use the app on Wi-Fi-only devices or spare phones without the registered SIM card. This new policy represents a significant change in how messaging apps operate in India, affecting millions of users nationwide.

This SIM binding mandate is part of the Telecommunication Cybersecurity Amendment Rules, 2025, designed to enhance the security and traceability of messaging platforms. Besides WhatsApp, other popular apps affected include Telegram and Signal, which also require accounts to be linked to active SIM cards. Moreover, WhatsApp Web will see automatic logouts every six hours to maintain the security of logged-in sessions, forcing users to reauthenticate frequently. The government considers mobile numbers as critical digital identity markers and wants to ensure that messaging services receive similar regulatory oversight as telecom operators do, fostering accountability and combating cybercrimes.

Multiple messaging apps face these regulations because the government is addressing concerns over the growing misuse of internet calling and messaging apps. Telecom companies have urged the government to apply the principle of “same service, same rules,” requesting these apps be subject to license fees, quality of service norms, and lawful interception capabilities like traditional telecom operators. While the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) clarified that it does not intend to regulate these OTT (over-the-top) apps under the new Telecommunications Act directly, they indicated that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (Meity) will evaluate suitable legislation to regulate these platforms, including the Digital India Act.

The impact of these changes goes beyond security. Users who switch phones frequently, travel internationally using different SIM cards, or rely on WhatsApp and similar apps on multiple devices without SIMs may face inconvenience. This new approach ends the era of WhatsApp being used independently of mobile SIM cards, such as on tablets or secondary devices without cellular connectivity. It could also affect users in rural areas or those with secondary numbers not regularly active in their devices. Despite the potential user inconvenience, the government’s priority is to reduce fraudulent activities and ensure better user identification and data security.

In summary, India’s new regulations enforce SIM binding on WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and other messaging apps to improve cybersecurity and fraud prevention. While these changes enhance accountability, they also require users to adapt to stricter app usage rules. The government continues to evaluate further measures to regulate internet-based communication platforms under applicable laws, balancing user security with service accessibility in India’s vast digital ecosystem.

This development marks a crucial turning point for messaging apps in India, signaling stricter controls and increased responsibility for digital communications providers. Users across the country should stay informed of these updates to comply with the new rules and secure their online communications accordingly.