Published on: December 4, 2025

NEW SIM-BINDING RULE

NEW SIM-BINDING RULE

NEWS – The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a directive requiring online messaging platforms—such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal—to ensure “SIM binding,” making continuous access dependent on the physical SIM used during registration. This move, rooted in the Telecommunication Cybersecurity Amendment Rules, 2025, aims to curb rising digital fraud but raises concerns around usability and privacy.

HIGHLIGHTS

What is SIM Binding?

  • SIM binding refers to continuous verification of a user’s account with the active SIM card used during registration.
  • Platforms must confirm the SIM’s International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) regularly, not just rely on OTP-based verification.

Why is Digital Fraud Rising in India?

  • Proliferation of phishing, SIM swapping, and messaging-based scams.
  • Increased digital penetration without equivalent digital literacy.
  • Use of VoIP numbers and spoofed identities by cybercriminals.
  • According to a 2025 Kaspersky report, 1 in 3 Indian users faced web-borne threats in 2024.

How SIM Binding Seeks to Address Fraud

  • Ensures that a user’s identity is tied to a verified, physically present SIM, reducing impersonation.
  • Makes it harder to operate accounts using cloned numbers or virtual identifiers.
  • Requires periodic logout from companion services (e.g., WhatsApp Web) every six hours to prevent misuse.

Industry Concerns

  • Privacy risks: Continuous SIM–IMSI access may increase data exposure.
  • User inconvenience: Frequent logouts disrupt workflows.
  • Global platforms may need re-engineering solely for India.
  • Travellers who switch SIMs abroad may lose access to their accounts.

Government Measures Against Digital Frauds

  • Telecommunication Cybersecurity Rules, 2025 introducing TIUE regulation.
  • Crackdown on fraudulent apps, digital lending scams, and illegal VoIP routes.
  • Faster grievance redressal mechanisms and public cybersecurity advisories.

Types of Digital Frauds

  • Phishing & smishing
  • SIM cloning & SIM swapping
  • Identity theft & account takeovers
  • Malware and ransomware attacks
  • Online financial frauds