No WhatsApp or Telegram without SIM in India: What expats and travellers need to know

Key points: SIM binding: Apps must stop working if the linked SIM is removed, replaced, or deactivated. Web logouts: WhatsApp Web and similar services will log you out automatically every six hours. Re-login via QR code will be required. Compliance: Apps have 90 days to implement the changes and 120 days to report compliance. Why it matters for travellers and expats If you’re traveling to India or are an expat using multiple devices: Apps may stop working on secondary devices or tablets without a SIM. Switching SIMs between devices frequently may cause intermittent access. Web versions of apps will require more frequent logins. Tip: Ensure your Indian SIM is active and your apps are updated before traveling to avoid interruptions. What the government wants The DoT has directed messaging apps to verify that the SIM card linked to the account is present at all times. If the SIM is removed, replaced, or deactivated, the app must stop functioning. Currently, most apps authenticate users only once during installation. Even if the SIM is changed or removed, the account continues to operate. The government says this loophole allows cybercriminals—especially those operating from abroad—to exploit inactive Indian numbers for fraud. Key requirements for
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