SIM Binding Operational From 1 January 2027: WhatsApp and Telegram Users Required to Have a Registered SIM

From 1 January 2027, WhatsApp and Telegram users in India may need to keep their registered SIM card in their phone to continue using these apps. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has asked app-based communication services to link every account with a KYC-verified SIM card. The aim is to reduce fraud, impersonation, and misuse of mobile numbers.

What Are SIM Binding Operational Rules?

SIM binding means a messaging account stays tied to the mobile number and SIM card used to create it. DoT issued the directive on 28 November 2025 under the Telecommunication Cybersecurity Amendment Rules. It covers services the department calls Telecom Identifier User Entities (TIUEs). The step makes it harder for fraudsters to use messaging apps to cheat people.

Key Timelines

• Directive issued: 28 November 2025
• Compliance deadline: 31 December 2026
• Operational start date: 1 January 2027

Core Requirements

• The account must stay linked to an active, KYC-verified SIM inserted in the user’s main phone.
• If the SIM is removed, swapped, or deactivated, app access may be restricted until the user verifies again.

Change in Web and Desktop Login Rules

DoT first wanted web and desktop sessions to log out automatically every six hours. It later withdrew this blanket rule. The department now allows risk-based logouts, and a service can be ended immediately if fraud is suspected.

Which Phones Will Be Affected by SIM Binding Rules?

Both iPhones and Android phones can be affected, depending on how each app applies the rules. Apple has reportedly released an iOS update in September that helps detect when an iPhone has no SIM card. The exact list of affected devices is still unclear. There is also no confirmation that WhatsApp will stop working on specific phone models from 1 January.

Users Who May Face Problems

• People who use WhatsApp or Telegram mainly over Wi-Fi without the registered SIM inserted
• Users who travel abroad
• Users who access the same account on more than one device

What Messaging Apps Follow SIM Binding Rules?

DoT has listed these platforms as covered services:

• WhatsApp
• Telegram
• Signal
• Snapchat
• ShareChat
• JioChat
• Josh
• Arattai

Status of Snapchat and Signal

Reports differ on Snapchat, and some say it does not have to follow SIM binding. Signal has reportedly not responded to government notices so far.