The Department of Telecommunications has granted additional time to messaging platforms to comply with its proposed SIM binding framework, as per The Moneycontrol report.
The extension follows requests from industry participants citing technical and operational difficulties in implementing the directive.
The compliance deadline, which was originally set for end-February 2026 with an additional 30-day reporting window, has now been pushed to year-end.
Authorities had earlier allowed flexibility until March-end, but the revised timeline reflects continued engagement with stakeholders. Companies were informed of this extension starting March 30.
The directive impacts major messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Signal and Telegram, along with broader ecosystem participants including handset manufacturers and operating system providers like Google and Apple. Several stakeholders had flagged challenges in aligning their systems with the requirements.
Apple highlighted constraints within its iOS ecosystem, while discussions between Meta and the department are ongoing to identify workable solutions. On Android devices, WhatsApp has already begun beta testing SIM binding functionality.
Under the proposed system, user accounts on messaging platforms will be linked directly to the SIM card used during registration. This means services would function only when the registered SIM is active in the device.
The measure is intended to reduce fraud risks, including misuse of duplicate numbers and interception of one-time passwords.
The directive, issued in November 2025, also introduces additional controls for web-based access. Users would be required to log out at least once every six hours and re-authenticate, typically through QR code verification, to continue using the service.
The government has positioned this framework as a step towards strengthening telecom security, with the communications minister describing SIM binding as essential for national security.
Industry bodies and companies have raised concerns regarding the complexity of implementing persistent SIM linkage across devices and sessions. The requirement would involve significant changes to existing platform architectures and coordination with operating system providers.
The Broadband India Forum highlighted “serious concerns” and recommended further consultation before implementation. It also cautioned that such measures could extend telecom-style regulations to digital platforms.
Similarly, the Internet and Mobile Association of India warned of potential disruptions for businesses, especially MSMEs. Frequent logouts could interrupt ongoing communication, delay responses and affect daily operations.
Additional concerns include usability challenges for international travellers, dual SIM users and those accessing services across multiple devices such as laptops.
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By extending the compliance deadline, the Department of Telecommunications has provided interim relief to industry participants while continuing to pursue its objective of enhancing security within digital communication platforms.
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Published on: Apr 2, 2026, 10:33 AM IST
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