“SIM Linking Now Mandatory for WhatsApp, Telegram and Other OTT Apps: What Users Need to Know”

DoT Orders SIM Linking for WhatsApp, Telegram and Other OTT Apps to Curb Online Fraud.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has instructed popular over-the-top (OTT) messaging platforms—including WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, and Signal—to implement mandatory SIM binding for user accounts, aiming to curb online fraud and misuse, according to the Economic Times.

Under the November 28 directive, OTT platforms have 90 days to ensure apps are linked to the active SIM in the user’s device. Non-compliance could invite penalties under existing telecom cybersecurity regulations.

The rules also require web and desktop versions of these apps to log users out every six hours, mandating fresh authentication via QR code. This measure is intended to prevent misuse of messaging platforms on devices without SIMs, a loophole exploited in cross-border cybercrime.

Legal Backing
The move is issued under the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Rules, 2024, notified on October 22 as part of the new Telecommunications Act. Officials noted that cybercriminals often use apps without a SIM, sometimes operating from outside India, enabling large-scale fraud.

Multiple ministries, including the Home Ministry, are collaborating to create a broader framework against digital financial crimes.

Government Stance
While some tech firms questioned DoT’s authority, officials defended the decision as falling squarely under the new cybersecurity rules.

“It is only for entities that use telecommunication identifiers like mobile numbers. If they don’t want SIM binding, they should not use mobile numbers as identifiers,” a government official told ET.

DoT is also planning a Mobile Number Verification (MNV) platform to confirm number ownership and prevent misuse.

Industry Concerns
Industry leaders have raised concerns over the practicality and user impact of the directive, saying it significantly alters the functioning of widely used messaging apps without public consultation or technical assessment.