India mandates SIM-binding for messaging apps starting January 2027
India's Department of Telecommunications requires messaging platforms to link services to active SIM cards by December 31, 2026, to curb cyber fraud.
Messaging services operating in India, including WhatsApp and Telegram, must implement SIM-binding by January 1, 2027, under a directive from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). The mandate requires that accounts remain linked to the specific SIM card associated with the user's registered mobile number, rather than relying on one-time verification.
The regulatory shift aims to address the rising volume of cyber fraud in the region, including phishing, impersonation, and investment scams. Officials state that current practices allow unauthorized access to messaging platforms on devices lacking the registered SIM, a loophole allegedly exploited by foreign-based criminal operations.
Implementation efforts are currently underway, with Apple reportedly adjusting iOS to accommodate the new requirements. While platforms such as WhatsApp have indicated plans to comply, others have questioned the feasibility of the mandate. Ambiguities remain regarding the treatment of eSIM users and the functionality of multi-device access once the mandate takes effect.
The initiative is part of a broader government strategy to fortify India's digital security framework. Government data indicates that cyber fraud resulted in losses exceeding ₹22,000 Cr in 2025 alone, prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to call for stronger collaboration between tech firms and telecommunications providers.