WhatsApp New Rule: DoT Orders Mandatory SIM-Linking for Messaging Apps to Prevent Cyber Fraud

WhatsApp New Rule: DoT Orders Mandatory SIM-Linking for Messaging Apps to Prevent Cyber Fraud

Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed all app-based communication services — including popular messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Arattai — to ensure their apps remain constantly linked to an active SIM card on the device.

The new rule will effectively make it impossible for users to continue using these social media messaging apps if the SIM card is removed, disabled, or inactive. The directive has been issued to stop the misuse of Indian mobile numbers from abroad, especially in cybercrime activities involving messaging account takeovers.

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DoT noted that some messaging apps currently allow users to operate the apps even when the SIM card associated with the user’s number is not present in the device.

According to the government, this loophole is increasingly being exploited for cyber-frauds and impersonation attacks conducted from outside the country.

As per the order, companies must ensure continuous SIM-binding for every user account and implement the system within 90 days.

Additionally, web versions of messaging apps will be required to automatically log out users periodically, and the re-authentication must take place within six hours using QR code-based verification linked to the same active SIM.

All service providers have been asked to submit compliance reports within 120 days. Any failure to comply with the directive will attract action under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, and the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024 (as amended).

The move follows updated Telecommunication Cybersecurity Amendment Rules, 2025, which stress strict mobile number verification to curb rising fraud cases.

DoT has said these measures are essential to protect users and ensure the security and integrity of the country’s telecom ecosystem.