SIM binding has become need of the day, expect all service providers to come on board: Scindia

At the Rising Bharat Summit, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said that India is the next growth potential for the world.

• SIM binding now required for messaging apps to boost security
• Apps must link accounts to active SIM cards per new DoT rules
• Violations may lead to penalties under telecom and cyber laws

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Communications minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Friday said SIM binding has become the need of the day because of national security considerations.

“The sim binding regulation stands and we hope all service providers will come on board,” said Scindia at the Rising Bharat Summit 2026 in conversation with Moneycontrol managing editor Dr Nalin Mehta.

The department of telecommunications (DoT) had earlier asked messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, Signal and Arattai to allow SIM binding, which ensures that these platforms only work when there is a functional sim.

The move is aimed at curbing rising instances of online fraud and so-called digital arrest scams.

What is SIM binding?

Under SIM binding, a messaging app account is linked exclusively to the physical SIM card used during registration. This means the account will work only if the registered SIM is present in the phone.

Authorities note that fraudsters often duplicate mobile numbers or misuse OTPs to break into accounts from secondary devices. The new system is expected to curb these illegal access attempts significantly.

What are the SIM binding guidelines?

As per DoT guidelines issued in November 2025, messaging applications must ensure continued linkage between user accounts and an active SIM card. Companies were given until February 28, 2026 -- a 90-day compliance period — to implement the changes. The government has indicated that violations could attract penalties under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, and related statutes.

Unlike the current system, where OTP verification allows apps to function even after a SIM is removed or deactivated, the new framework mandates continuous SIM validation. The Centre has emphasised that the rules will not impact users who are roaming, so long as their SIM remains active in their device.