Overview
- The DoT directive requires continuous SIM-binding for messaging apps and forces companion web sessions to reauthenticate every six hours via QR code.
- Platforms have roughly three months to implement the changes and must file compliance reports within 120 days, with enforcement expected to begin around February 2026.
- COAI, representing major telcos, says SIM presence in the device is sufficient for periodic checks, claims minimal user inconvenience for travellers, and compares the approach to established UPI-style authentication.
- Industry groups including BIF and IAMI object to the mandate, citing a lack of consultation, privacy and usability concerns, and doubts about effectiveness given SIMs obtained with forged IDs.
- A LocalCircles survey reports that nearly 60% of respondents expect to be impacted and half do not support the rule, with many citing multi‑device use and potential disruption when abroad despite a DoT note that roaming with the SIM in the handset would be unaffected.