SIM Binding: WhatsApp will not work without a SIM card from March 1st, the government has not extended the deadline..

If you use WhatsApp, there's some big news for you. The central government has made it clear that there will be no relaxation in the SIM-binding rule. This rule will apply to messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal, as well. According to the latest information, all companies will be required to comply with this rule from March 1, 2026.

Why did the government refuse to extend the deadline?

Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia recently stated that there is currently no consideration of extending the deadline for compliance. According to him, these rules have been implemented to protect national security and prevent cyber fraud, and the government will not compromise on security issues. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) issued a guideline to this effect on November 28, 2025.

The rule will be fully implemented from March 1, 2026.

According to the guideline, the Department of Telecommunications gave companies 90 days to implement the rules. This means that the deadline will expire on February 28th, and from March 1st, 2026, all messaging platforms will be required to implement the SIM-binding system.

The new rule will apply to both the mobile app and the web and desktop versions. If you log in to WhatsApp Web or Desktop, you will be automatically logged out every six hours. To reuse, you will need to scan a QR code and log in.

What is the SIM-binding rule?

Under the new rule, the SIM card associated with the mobile number associated with your WhatsApp account must remain active in your phone. If that SIM card is removed from the phone or deactivated, the app will stop working on that device.

Until now, users could log in by entering a 6-digit OTP, and the presence of the SIM card was not checked. However, with the new rule, the app will need to periodically verify that the number is active and present in the same phone.

What will be the impact on ordinary users?

If your mobile number is active and the same SIM is in your phone, there's no need to worry. Your account will continue to function normally.

However, if you remove the SIM, insert it into another phone, or the number is disabled due to a lack of recharge, WhatsApp may ask for re-verification or may temporarily shut down.

The government believes this move will strengthen the fight against cybercrime and improve digital security.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.