Big decision of the government, WhatsApp and Telegram will continue to work even without SIM –

By Samira Vishwas On Apr 2, 2026

Tezzbuzz Desk- The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has postponed the SIM Binding Guidelines till December 31. This simply means that currently users will be able to use messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram even without an active SIM. Also, the requirement of automatic logout will not be applicable on the web version as of now.

What is SIM Binding and why was its deadline postponed?

SIM Binding is a system under which messaging apps are allowed to run only on devices that have an active SIM card. This rule was to come into effect from March 30, 2026, but due to technical reasons it has been postponed for the time being. Now companies have been given time till December 31, 2026 to follow these rules.

After this decision, WhatsApp and Telegram will continue to work even without SIM. There will be no automatic logout from the web version. Users will be able to use the multi-device feature as before. That is, at present users will not have to face any major changes.

Apple had expressed protest

Apple had raised objection regarding the SIM Binding Guidelines. Citing technical difficulties, the company had said that it is not easy to implement this rule. After this, the government decided to postpone this decision for the time being.

Why was this guideline brought?

DoT had prepared this rule to stop cyber fraud. In many cases it was seen that messaging apps remain active even after removing the SIM. Cyber criminals take advantage of this flaw and commit fraud. Its use was increasing especially in cross-border digital fraud. To eliminate this security gap, the proposal of SIM Binding was brought.

What was the plan earlier?

28 November 2025: DoT released guidelines
26 February 2026: Preparation to connect service to active SIM
30 March 2026: The rule was to come into force
Now new deadline: 31 December 2026

The government and tech companies are working together to implement this guideline. It is expected that by the end of the year, such a system will be ready, which will maintain the convenience of the users and also strengthen the security.

The purpose of SIM Binding Guideline is to increase the security of users, but due to technical challenges it has been postponed for the time being. Till then users can use their favorite messaging apps without any interruption. In the coming time, this rule can further strengthen digital security.