The SIM-binding rule aims to curb cross-border cyber fraud and digital arrest scams.
Messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Telegram will have to link accounts to the active SIM used at registration, with January 1, 2027 set as the operational date for the new rules.
Under the requirement, if the registered SIM is removed, replaced or deactivated, the app will stop working until a valid SIM is reinserted. Platforms must complete SIM linking by December 31.
The Department of Telecommunications issued the rules after finding that some app-based services allowed users to access accounts without the registered SIM in the device.
The government says the move will help curb cross-border cyber fraud, phishing and so-called digital arrest scams.
