WhatsApp is preparing to launch a regular SIM verification system for users in India. This step is part of compliance with new regulations from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) aimed at improving digital security and preventing fraud.
With the updated system, WhatsApp, its largest market being India, will regularly check if the registered mobile SIM card is active and physically present in the device. Right now, WhatsApp only verifies a phone number once during the initial setup. The new method will periodically confirm that the same SIM used at registration is still in the device. This will improve verification and lower the risk of accounts staying active on deregistered or reassigned numbers.
This change comes from SIM-binding rules introduced by the DoT in late 2025, under the Telecommunications Cyber Security Amendment Rules. These rules require messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Snapchat, and others to ensure that their services work only when the original SIM used for registration remains active and linked to the account. The goal is to tackle cyber fraud, impersonation, and misuse of inactive phone numbers, which authorities say are widely exploited.
Under the new regulations, messaging apps have 90 days to implement SIM-binding systems. In practice, WhatsApp will add periodic verification checks in the background and may ask users to confirm their mobile number through SMS codes if the SIM’s status changes. If verification fails, access to the app might be limited until the user finishes the re-authentication process. The company is testing this feature in beta versions, with screenshots showing an in-app message that explains the need for SIM checks under Indian regulations.
The SIM-binding requirement will also affect linked services like WhatsApp Web and desktop. DoT rules mandate that these sessions log out periodically, typically every six hours, unless the account is re-linked with a QR code to an active SIM-linked device. This aims to decrease long-lasting sessions that could be misused if the original number is inactive or compromised.
The periodic SIM verification system will only apply to users with Indian +91 numbers and is not expected to impact users outside the country. Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, has been working with regulators to ensure the rollout meets India-specific compliance deadlines and technical needs.
Authorities believe these changes will enhance traceability and accountability in digital messaging. However, critics have raised concerns about user convenience and the effects on features such as multi-device support and roaming.
