New Delhi: India’s push to tighten security on messaging platforms is facing delays, with the government now looking at extending deadlines for SIM binding rules. The move comes after companies flagged technical challenges in implementing the directive across devices and operating systems. Platforms like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram are still working through the requirements.
The new rules aim to link messaging apps directly to the SIM card inside a user’s phone, making misuse harder. But getting there is proving more complex than expected.
SIM Binding: Govt considers phased rollout till December
The Department of Telecommunications is now considering a phased rollout instead of a strict deadline. According to a Hindustan Times report, compliance may now stretch till the end of December.
A DoT official said, “We will extend the compliance deadlines as companies have run into technical challenges… The compliance will happen in a phased manner.”
The earlier deadline was February-end 2026, based on a 90 day window from the November 2025 directive. That target was missed. Even a short extension till March-end did not work, leading to this broader rethink.
What SIM binding rules require
The SIM binding directive requires messaging apps that use mobile numbers to verify that the account is tied to the SIM inside the device.
It also brings changes to web access. Users may need to log in again every few hours.
- Apps must link accounts with active SIM cards
- Web versions must log out users at least once every six hours
- Re-authentication will likely happen through QR codes
The idea is simple. Reduce fraud and stop misuse of accounts that are not tied to active numbers.
Android may comply first, iOS faces delays
The rollout may not happen at the same pace across platforms. Android devices are expected to comply earlier.
A DoT official said, “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.”
Meta has said it is working with the government to find a workable solution. SIM binding for WhatsApp on Android is already in beta testing.
For now, the policy direction is clear. The government wants tighter control over digital identity linked to messaging. But the path to implementation is still being worked out, step by step.