WhatsApp, Telegram SIM binding rules from January 1, 2027: Who will be affected in India?

WhatsApp, Telegram and other messaging apps may have to remain linked to registered, active SIM cards under India's new SIM-binding rules from January 1, 2027. The DoT has set December 31, 2026, as the compliance deadline, aiming to curb cyber fraud and the misuse of Indian mobile numbers.