Messaging platform WhatsApp may soon require users to keep their registered SIM card active and inserted in their phones, following new directions issued by India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
The move is part of a proposed SIM-binding policy, under which messaging apps would be required to continuously verify that the SIM card linked to a user’s phone number is present and active on the device. If the SIM card is removed or becomes inactive, access to the app could be restricted until verification is completed again.
What the new rule means
Under this system, WhatsApp accounts would remain tied not just to a phone number, but also to the physical SIM card used during registration. This could impact users who remove their SIM cards, switch devices frequently, or rely on Wi-Fi-only setups. In such cases, WhatsApp may temporarily stop functioning until the registered SIM is reinserted and verified.
The rule may also affect WhatsApp Web and desktop usage, as linked devices could be logged out periodically if SIM verification fails.
Is the rule active now?
At present, WhatsApp has not rolled out this requirement for all users. The company is reportedly testing SIM-binding features in select beta versions of its Android app in India to comply with the government directive. A wider rollout is expected only after further evaluation and regulatory clarity.
What will not change
Removing a SIM card will not delete existing chats or media, as messages remain stored on the device. Additionally, the rule does not apply globally at this stage and is currently linked to Indian telecom regulations.
Why the government wants SIM-binding
According to officials, the policy is aimed at reducing cyber fraud, preventing misuse of messaging platforms, and improving traceability of accounts used for scams and illegal activities. However, digital rights experts have raised concerns about user privacy and the inconvenience it may cause to legitimate users.
The bottom line
WhatsApp will not immediately stop working for all users if a SIM card is removed. However, if SIM-binding rules are fully implemented in India, keeping the registered SIM active and inserted in the phone may become mandatory for uninterrupted access.
