India plans to require messaging apps to keep user accounts linked to an active SIM (or eSIM) starting in 2027, affecting apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal. Reports say the change is designed to stop messaging accounts from continuing to function when the original SIM is removed, deactivated or moved, closing a loophole used in scams involving Indian mobile numbers.
Outlets describe the rules as coming from the Department of Telecommunications under the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024, with DoT guidance issued in late November 2025 and compliance deadlines extended to December 31, 2026. Several reports also frame the move as part of broader efforts to curb phishing and “digital arrest” style fraud and cross-border misuse of phone numbers.
Coverage also notes technology and implementation details. Times of India says iOS updates help detect operation without a physical SIM to support compliance, and it reports Signal had not yet responded to government notices. Other outlets highlight industry and platform readiness, including references to SIM-binding support in Apple iOS and mention of Meta testing the feature with WhatsApp users in India.
