SIM binding rule: Will WhatsApp and Telegram stop working without your active SIM from March 1? Check full story here

India’s popular messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Snapchat, ShareChat, JioChat, Arattai and Josh will begin operating under a new SIM-binding rule from March 1, following a directive issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).

SIM-binding rule comes into effect from March 1

The directive was formally issued on November 28 under the Telecom Cyber Security (TCS) Rules, 2024, as amended. Messaging platforms were given 90 days to comply with the order, with the deadline ending on February 28. Companies must also submit a compliance report within 120 days of the directive.

Under the new framework, messaging apps will only function on a device if the registered Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card used to create the account is physically present and active in the mobile phone. If the SIM card is removed, swapped or deactivated, the apps must immediately stop operating on that device until the correct SIM is reinserted and verified.

This move effectively links messaging accounts to an active SIM at all times, tightening identity verification norms across app-based communication services in India.

Web sessions to log out every six hours

The new rules also impact web and desktop versions of these platforms, including WhatsApp Web and Telegram Web. Under the updated guidelines, web and desktop sessions must automatically log out every six hours. Users will need to log in again using authentication methods such as scanning a QR code from their phone that contains the active SIM.

The government says the measure is aimed at reducing misuse, especially in cases where accounts are accessed without the knowledge of the SIM holder.

According to officials, the SIM-binding requirement is designed to curb cybercrimes such as SIM-swap fraud, impersonation attacks and identity misuse. By ensuring that messaging services remain continuously linked to an active SIM, authorities believe traceability and accountability will improve.

Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has stated that the March 1 deadline will not be extended. He emphasised that stronger digital security measures are necessary as India’s digital ecosystem continues to expand rapidly.

Industry bodies representing messaging platforms have expressed concerns about possible inconvenience to users. Individuals who frequently switch devices, travel internationally, or use multiple phones may face interruptions if the registered SIM is not inserted in the device.

However, the government maintains that the updated telecom cybersecurity rules are essential to strengthen user protection and safeguard digital communication channels in India.

With the new SIM-binding rule set to take effect from March 1, millions of users across the country may notice changes in how their messaging apps function, particularly when switching devices or using web versions.