SIM Binding on Arattai: Complying with India's Telecom Cybersecurity Requirements

As part of India's efforts to strengthen telecom cybersecurity and prevent the misuse of communication services, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced requirements for app-based communication services linked to Indian mobile numbers under the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Rules, 2024. 

Arattai has implemented SIM binding in accordance with the applicable DoT directions. It introduces SIM verification requirements for accounts registered with Indian (+91) mobile numbers, and is being rolled out in phases.

Here's what the regulatory requirements mean for Arattai and what users can expect.

The problem it solves 

Scammers don't need your SIM to misuse a messaging account. Once a number is verified, the account can keep running long after the SIM is gone or has changed hands. That's how phishing, impersonation, digital arrest scams and investment fraud keep spreading through chat apps. 

SIM binding closes that gap. It links your Arattai account on your primary device to the active SIM of your registered mobile number. If that SIM is removed or unavailable, Arattai asks you to restore the connection on your primary device before you carry on.

What you'll see 

When you sign up or sign in again. After you enter your +91 number, Arattai opens a pre-filled SMS. Send it without changing anything. Arattai checks the message against your SIM, and you're in. 

If you're already signed in. Your current session isn't affected until you sign in again, or until 30 November. Verification will open up inside the app by the end of October, and you can do it whenever you like. It becomes mandatory on 30 November 2026. 

If you use Arattai Web or other linked devices. They depend on your primary device. While it's bound to its SIM, they work as usual. If that SIM is removed or unavailable, Arattai asks you to restore the connection from your primary device before you carry on.

Key dates 

• October 2026: SIM verification starts for new registrations and re-logins. 
• End of October: Existing users can verify voluntarily. 
• Early November: Reminders and banners appear in the app. 
• Late November: Daily reminders. 
• 30 November: Mandatory for everyone signed in with a +91 number.

We'd suggest verifying as soon as it's available for you, rather than on the last day. 

The guidelines behind it 

The DoT issued its SIM binding directions on 28 November 2025 for App Based Communication Services that use a mobile number, under the Rules (Notification No. CG-DL-E-21112024-258808), as amended (Notification No. CG-DL-E-22102025-267074). Clarifications issued on 26 February 2026 set out how often SIM binding is checked and when linked sessions are logged out. The compliance reporting deadline is 31 December 2026.

For step-by-step help with verification or getting back into your account, see our SIM binding help article.