Telecom body backs SIM-binding order, dismisses privacy concerns

Mumbai: The telecom operators have reiterated their support for Department of Telecommunications (DoT) directive on SIM-binding for messaging apps like Whatsapp, Telegram etc, dismissing concerns about user convenience and privacy as "misplaced narratives."

The DoT in its November 28 order, directed app-based communication services including WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal to ensure continuous linkage between user accounts and active SIM cards within 90 days. The directive also mandates six-hour logout cycles for web versions, requiring QR code-based re-authentication.

"There has been a crying need that the users' App based communication services are identifiable at all times without violating existing rules on privacy and data," said S.P. Kochhar, Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) Director General.


According to COAI, which counts all three private telcos- Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea— as its members, said SIM-binding is already a standard feature in widely used digital authentication systems such as UPI and payment applications. The association said users abroad can continue accessing services through Wi-Fi while keeping their Indian SIM in a secondary slot.

Addressing international traveler concerns, COAI said that this is a "deliberate and essential security safeguard” to prevent misuse and stop untraceable frauds and scams.

The telecom body defended the six-hour reauthentication requirement, saying that high-value systems including banking portals and DigiLocker enforce stricter norms. "The security benefits will far outweigh any perceived inconvenience," COAI said.It said that SIM-binding is a long overdue idea and strengthens national security.