The government’s directive was issued in November 2025. It said that apps that use mobile numbers for user identification needed to link each account to the SIM card in the device.
This measure ensures that the apps cannot be accessed without an active SIM and is aimed at reducing cyber fraud and the misuse of telecom identifiers, particularly those originating from outside India.
Web versions of these platforms are also affected. Under the new rules, users on desktop or browser versions will be logged out automatically at least once every six hours. They must then re-authenticate (usually by scanning a QR code) to continue using the service.
Commenting on the extension, a DoT official told Hindustan Times, “We will extend the compliance deadlines as companies have run into technical challenges, including testing and operating system updates. Firms have sought additional time to address these issues.”
The official added that compliance will be phased, with Android users likely to see the changes first. iOS faces technical hurdles, but Apple is reportedly working on a solution which the government expects to be resolved by December.
The original directive set a 90-day timeline for implementing SIM binding, which ended in February 2026, and required a compliance report within 120 days. Since these deadlines were not met, the DoT had previously indicated that March-end could be acceptable.
But following repeated requests from messaging platforms, the government is now considering a longer extension. An official notice regarding the revised deadline is expected soon.
Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, is coordinating closely with the DoT to ensure compliance and the SIM binding feature is currently being tested on Android. Zoho’s Arattai is also working with authorities to resolve technical challenges, said Jeri John, the app’s global product head.
Industry experts have raised concerns over the practical difficulties of enforcing continuous SIM binding, especially across multiple devices and web logins. Despite these challenges, the government appears firm on its decision and is moving ahead with the implementation of the directive.
