REGULATORY · INDIA
WhatsApp testing SIM-binding controls tied to India DoT directive
Change
WhatsApp appears to be testing a SIM-verification (SIM-binding) feature to align with India DoT directions that require disabling access when the registered SIM isn’t in the handset and forcing companion sessions (e.g., WhatsApp Web) to log out every six hours.
Why it matters
DoT directions (issued Nov. 28, 2025) require services using phone numbers as identifiers to verify the registered SIM is provisioned on the accessing handset and to disable access if it is not. The same directions also require web/companion instances such as WhatsApp Web to be logged out every six hours, reducing session persistence. WhatsApp’s apparent SIM-verification testing signals product changes to meet these constraints. The directive is framed under DoT’s expanded authority over Telecommunication Identifier User Entity (TIUE), widening the compliance perimeter beyond telecom operators to online messaging platforms. Operationally, the requirements change assumptions around multi-device continuity, remote access, and long-lived web sessions.
Implications
- • Higher session churn: WhatsApp Web/companion logouts every 6 hours
- • Access loss risk when SIM is removed/swapped or not in the active handset
- • Reduced viability of shared-device and persistent web-based messaging workflows
- • Compliance scope expands to TIUE services using phone numbers as identifiers
Who is affected
- • WhatsApp and other phone-number-identified messaging platforms
- • Businesses using WhatsApp Web for customer support/sales operations
- • Users relying on multi-device/companion access (web/desktop)
- • DoT AI & Digital Intelligence Unit (TIUE enforcement remit)
Source
Topics
World & Politics Policy & Regulation Law & Public Safety Compliance Data Privacy