DoT Weighs Extending SIM Binding Deadline for WhatsApp, Telegram and Other Apps

India’s push to tighten digital communication security is seeing a timeline shift, as authorities reconsider implementation deadlines for SIM binding norms amid industry-level technical constraints. 

SIM Binding Framework: What It Requires 

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) had introduced SIM binding norms in November 2025, targeting messaging platforms that rely on mobile numbers for user authentication. 

Under this framework, such platforms must ensure that accounts remain linked to the SIM card present in the user’s device, reducing the risk of misuse through inactive or unauthorised numbers. 

Additionally, web-based access to these services must enforce periodic logouts at intervals of up to 6 hours, requiring users to re-authenticate, typically via QR-based verification. 

Deadline Likely to Be Extended 

According to Hindustan Times report, a DoT official said the government will extend compliance deadlines as companies have faced issues related to testing and operating system updates. 

“We will extend the compliance deadlines as companies have run into technical challenges… The compliance will happen in a phased manner,” the official said, as per the report. 

The report further mentioned that Android devices are likely to comply first, while iOS is facing certain constraints. 

“Android is likely to comply first, while iOS faces certain technical constraints for which Apple is working on a solution. These are expected to be resolved by December,” the official said. 

Platforms Flag Technical Roadblocks 

Major messaging platforms, including WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram, have highlighted multiple implementation challenges. 

These include limitations at the operating system level, complexities in testing across device ecosystems, and potential disruptions to user experience, factors that have collectively delayed compliance. 

Missed Deadlines Trigger Policy Recalibration 

The original directive required platforms to comply within 90 days of issuance, effectively setting a deadline around February-end 2026. 

While an informal extension up to March-end had been considered earlier, continued industry feedback has now prompted discussions around a more structured and extended rollout timeline. 

Industry Engagement and Current Progress 

According to the report, Meta is engaged with the DoT to develop a technically viable implementation approach, while SIM binding for WhatsApp on Android has entered the beta testing phase. 

Read More: Broadband India Forum Calls for Rethink of DoT’s Cyber Security and SIM Binding Rules! 

Conclusion 

The proposed extension reflects a balance between regulatory intent and practical feasibility, as authorities work towards phased implementation without disrupting user ecosystems. 

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