India’s government has introduced strict regulations requiring messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Snapchat, and others to function only with an active SIM card inserted in the device. Classified as Telecommunication Identifier User Entities (TIUE), these platforms must continuously verify the registered SIM’s presence, with web versions forcing logout every six hours and requiring QR code re-authentication. 

The Telecommunication Cybersecurity Amendment Rules 2025 aim to curb cyber fraud by linking app sessions to verified SIMs, addressing issues where apps operate independently after initial phone verification. Telecom operators support the move, arguing it strengthens traceability for law enforcement, though experts doubt its effectiveness against fraudsters using fake SIMs. Compliance is due within 90 days, marking a shift toward telecom-like oversight for digital communication services.

source: securitylab

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