In a significant move to strengthen cybersecurity, India's Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued new directives requiring messaging applications to function exclusively with active SIM cards. This decision affects all major communication platforms operating in the country, including WhatsApp and Telegram.
New Compliance Requirements for Messaging Apps
The Department of Telecommunications has formally instructed all providers of app-based communication services to ensure their platforms work only when linked to an active mobile SIM card. This represents a fundamental shift in how messaging applications will operate within India's digital ecosystem.
All companies have been given a strict deadline of 120 days from the issuance of the directions to implement these changes. The notification was officially released on November 29, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in India's approach to digital communication regulation.
Implementation Timeline and Reporting
Service providers must not only implement the technical changes but also demonstrate their compliance to regulatory authorities. Within the 120-day window, all players are required to submit detailed compliance reports to the Department of Telecommunications.
This timeframe gives companies approximately four months to overhaul their verification systems and ensure seamless integration with mobile network operators. The requirement applies universally to all entities offering communication services through applications in the Indian market.
Impact on Users and Cybersecurity
The new norms are expected to significantly enhance accountability and traceability in digital communications. By linking messaging applications to active SIM cards, which are already verified through KYC processes, authorities aim to create a more secure digital environment.
For everyday users, this means that accessing popular messaging services will require maintaining an active SIM card with proper verification. The move aligns with India's broader efforts to combat cyber fraud, misinformation, and unauthorized communications while maintaining the convenience of popular messaging platforms.
The Department of Telecommunications' decision reflects growing global concerns about digital security and represents India's proactive stance in establishing robust cyber norms for the evolving digital landscape.
