Regulatory Compliance Underway
WhatsApp, under Meta's ownership, is actively working on integrating a SIM binding functionality specifically for users within India. This initiative stems
directly from a directive issued by the Department of Telecom (DoT) last year. The directive, enacted under the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Rules (2024), mandates that all messaging applications must verify the presence of an active SIM card associated with a user's account. Evidence suggests that the application will soon prompt users with a notification, informing them of this necessary check to adhere to the country's regulatory framework. This development indicates a significant shift in how messaging services will operate and verify user identities in India, prioritizing compliance with national telecommunications standards.
Understanding SIM Binding Mechanics
A glimpse into WhatsApp's beta version for Android, specifically update 2.26.8.6, has revealed a forthcoming feature designed to meet India's regulatory demands. According to insights from feature tracker WABetaInfo, users will encounter a pop-up message stating, "Due to regulatory requirements in India, WhatsApp needs to check that your SIM card is in your device." While the underlying functionality is still under active development and not expected imminently, its purpose is clear: to align with the DoT's mandate. This directive, effective from November 2025, requires messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram to implement SIM-based login verification for all accounts registered with an Indian phone number. The core idea is to ensure that the active SIM card in a user's smartphone is the same one registered with their WhatsApp account, thereby adding a layer of security and accountability.
Account Session Verification
For accounts registered with an Indian (+91) phone number, WhatsApp is set to introduce a periodic session renewal process. This means the application will conduct recurring checks to confirm that the SIM card currently residing in the user's handset is indeed the one that was used during the initial WhatsApp account registration. This verification mechanism is crucial for maintaining compliance with the DoT's directive aimed at curbing cyber fraud. Should an account fail this SIM binding verification test, WhatsApp's access will be restricted until the validation is successfully restored. Importantly, this restriction will not affect existing chats and messages that were received prior to the verification failure, ensuring continuity of communication history for the user.
Broader Security Directives
Beyond the SIM binding feature, the DoT's directive issued in November 2025 encompasses additional security mandates for chat platforms. One notable requirement is the automatic logout of web-based or desktop clients every six hours. Users will need to re-authenticate their accounts on linked devices by scanning a QR code, a process designed to prevent unauthorized access and enhance session security. Although this feature has not yet appeared in any development versions of WhatsApp, its inclusion is anticipated as part of the platform's efforts to fully comply with the government's cybersecurity regulations. The overall objective of these measures is to strengthen the security infrastructure of messaging applications operating within India and to create a more secure digital communication environment for all users.
Concerns and Criticisms
Following the DoT's directive last November, the Internet Freedom Foundation has formally urged the department to reconsider the SIM binding mandate. Their concerns highlight potential issues with the measure, which reportedly emerged after lobbying efforts from telecom operators in India. Critics point to several practical challenges, including the potential for app functionality disruptions if a SIM card is damaged or needs to be replaced. Furthermore, users traveling internationally might face difficulties and additional costs, potentially needing to purchase expensive international roaming packs simply to keep their chat applications functional. These issues raise questions about the feasibility and user-friendliness of the mandated SIM binding and its impact on individuals' digital communication experiences.
