DoT extends deadline for OTT app SIM-binding to December 31

Mumbai: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has extended the deadline for implementing SIM-binding by over-the-top (OTT) platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, Signal and Arattai to December 31 following industry pushback.

It has also rolled back the mandate requiring web and desktop sessions of OTT platforms to automatically log out within six hours and require re-authentication through QR code pairing. Instead, it has adopted a risk-based approach, where sessions must be terminated immediately only in cases of suspected fraud, officials told ET.

Platform players said enabling SIM-binding-which means the app on a device will remain linked to a particular mobile number-across both Android and Apple ecosystems will take time, with technical readiness expected only by October-November 2026.


Queries sent to Apple, Google and Meta remained unanswered at the time of going to press.

In an effort to combat frauds such as digital arrests, the DoT, on November 28, 2025, directed OTT platforms to implement SIM-binding. Platforms were required to comply within 90 days.

The DoT directions were issued under the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Rules, 2024, notified on October 22 as part of the Telecommunications Act.