India, Nov. 30 -- The new SIM-binding rules will rewrite how Indians use their messaging apps. People will now no longer be able to run apps like WhatsApp, Telegram or Signal on a device without the active SIM card inside it.

That means no more using WhatsApp on a phone with a different SIM, no more shifting between devices freely, and far more frequent logouts on web versions of these messaging applications.

The notification, issued on November 28, 2025, has come into force with immediate effect.

"It has come to the notice of Central Government that some of the App Based Communication Services that are utilizing Mobile Number for identification of its customers/users or for provisioning or delivery of services, allows users to consume...