DoT Orders SIM Binding for Apps Like WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram and Other OTTs to Check Online Fraud

India’s telecom department has mandated new SIM-linked authentication rules for popular messaging apps to curb growing online fraud while reshaping how these platforms function for millions of users. 

DoT Issues New SIM-Linked Requirements for OTT apps 

The Department of Telecommunications has instructed apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Snapchat, and others to ensure that each account remains tied to the active SIM on the user’s device. Apps will have 90 days to implement the requirement, after which non-compliance may attract penalties. 

DoT also directed that web and desktop versions must automatically log out users every 6 hours and require fresh QR-based authentication. As per the news reports, officials said the move follows nearly a year of engagement with platforms amid rising cases of digital scams. 

Industry Concerns and Operational Challenges 

As per news reports this have raised concerns over practical limitations, saying the mandate affects how widely used messaging apps function across devices. This disrupts for users travelling abroad, those using eSIM or dual SIM devices, and small businesses that rely on persistent desktop sessions. 

Several industry representatives also questioned whether SIM binding would effectively curb fraud originating outside India, pointing out that scam operations could still exploit Indian SIM cards. The broader view from sector experts is that stronger SIM lifecycle controls and coordinated fraud-detection frameworks may be necessary. 

Read More: TRAI October 2025: Jio Adds 20 Lakh Users, Airtel Gains 12.5 Lakh; Vodafone Loses 20.8 Lakh! 

Conclusion 

The new SIM-binding rules mark a major shift for India’s messaging ecosystem, affecting both user experience and platform operations. While the DoT sees the move as essential for curbing digital fraud, industry voices argue that practical challenges and broader security gaps still need attention. 

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