The Indian government has mandated SIM binding for messaging apps including WhatsApp to curb misuse and improve digital security. SIM binding links user accounts to active mobile SIM cards and requires periodic re-authentication, helping prevent unauthorized access, fraud, and enhancing overall communication privacy.
India’s recent regulatory mandate enforces SIM binding for messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal, fundamentally transforming how these services authenticate and manage user sessions. SIM binding means that a user’s messaging app account must be explicitly linked to an active SIM card registered in their name.
Under this rule, messaging apps must verify the presence of an active SIM on a user’s device periodically, especially when accessing services via web or desktop platforms. Users will be required to re-authenticate more frequently, including automatic logout from web sessions every six hours if SIM verification fails.
The government introduced SIM binding to mitigate cyber fraud, identity theft, and misuse by ensuring only genuine users with active mobile numbers can access messaging services. It also aids law enforcement in tracing communications in cases of criminal activity.
While this may create inconvenience for some users, it significantly enhances accountability, reduces anonymous misuse, and strengthens India’s digital ecosystem against rising cyber threats.
Source: Indian Express, Financial Express, India Today, IndiaTV News