SIM Binding: Now a new twist is emerging regarding the SIM binding rules implemented by the Central Government. According to reports, the government may consider showing some leniency in these rules. Many tech companies and digital platforms have expressed concern about these rules, after which the government is reviewing this issue again.
What is the rule of SIM binding?
In December 2025, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) had issued new rules. According to this, messaging apps will have to be constantly linked to the user’s mobile SIM. This means that the app can be used from a device with the same SIM number with which the account is created.
Apart from this, it was also said in the rules that if a user uses these apps on web or desktop version, then he will be automatically logged out every six hours. Its purpose was said to be to strengthen security and prevent misuse.
Tech companies raised objection
Many social media and tech companies have registered their objections regarding these rules. Companies say that this rule should apply only to those apps which are mainly made for messaging.
He argues that in many big digital platforms, messaging is just a feature while their core services are different. In such a situation, it would not be practical to apply the same rules to them also.
Some platforms may get exemption
According to reports, the government is now considering the possibility of exempting such platforms whose main function is not to send messages to each other. According to sources, the purpose of the law was mainly to cover communication apps, so some flexibility can be shown on this. However, final consensus has not been reached on this topic yet.
Some companies started preparations
In view of the possibility of implementation of the rules, some messaging platforms have already started preparing for the changes. For example, apps like WhatsApp, JioChat and Arattai are working on the technical arrangement to link their user accounts with SIM.
Why was this rule brought?
The proposal for SIM binding came under the Telecommunication Cybersecurity Amendment Rules, 2025. Through these rules, the government has also tried to bring those digital platforms under the ambit of telecom rules which identify the user on the basis of mobile number.
According to the rules, companies had to ensure that the user can use the service on the same device which has the SIM used at the time of registration. Companies were given 90 days to implement technical changes.
Efforts to stop cyber fraud
The government believes that devices not linked to SIM can be used in cyber crimes. Such rules were said to be necessary especially to prevent incidents of telecom fraud from abroad. For this reason, a provision was made to keep the web or desktop login active only for a limited time.
Industry organizations expressed concern
Many organizations associated with the tech industry have also expressed concern about these rules. Broadband India Forum says that such rules may be beyond the jurisdiction of the Telecom Department and may raise some legal questions.
He also suggested that the SIM-KYC process should be strengthened for cyber security and better coordination should be made between telecom companies, banks and investigating agencies.
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