India’s telecom regulator, along with other government agencies, is preparing a new set of rules slated for 2026 that could significantly reshape how mobile numbers are used for calls and messages.
Under the draft guidelines, major communication apps may be required to link SIM with the devices they operate on, tightening security for any misuse and fraud. This also includes introducing network -level caller ID across operators, for the recipient to see valid caller information.
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New SIM-Binding Mandate for Messaging Platforms
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal and others to ensure their services work only when the mobile SIM registered to the account is present and active on the device.
According to the policy, apps must continuously verify that the linked SIM stays in the user’s phone to prevent account misuse and fraud.
The move comes as a follow-up to the rising number of fraud cases, where attackers register with a SIM, then discard it while retaining access to the account. Web and desktop sessions will automatically log out every six hours and require re-authentication.
A 90-day compliance window has been defined for implementation, followed by detailed reporting to DoT.
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Network-Level Caller ID via CNAP
Separately, telecom operators are already running pilot projects of Calling Name Presentation (CNAP). It is a network-based caller identification feature. Under this, the incoming calls display a verified name associated with the caller’s SIM registration.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and DoT have nationwide expansion plans for CNAP by early 2026. The feature is set to reduce spam and scam calls by giving recipients verified identity details rather than crowd-sourced labels used by third-party apps.
The two measures are part of a broader push to tighten telecom cybersecurity and curb financial fraud linked to unverified identities and anonymous communication channels.
