COAI Welcomes DoT’s Landmark Mandate on SIM-Binding for App-Based Communication Services
The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has lauded the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) for issuing a pivotal directive mandating SIM-binding for devices using app-based communication services—an unprecedented move aimed at strengthening national security and protecting Indian citizens from fraud and misuse.
In its latest instructions, the DoT has mandated that communication applications must remain continuously linked to the SIM card associated with the user’s mobile number. This continuous linkage is intended to prevent misuse of telecom identifiers, networks, and services by ensuring complete accountability and traceability for any activity carried out through a SIM card and its associated communication app.
“COAI welcomes and commends the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) for taking a landmark step towards bolstering national security and safeguarding our citizens, by mandating SIM-binding for devices for app-based communication services,” said Lt. Gen. Dr. S.P. Kochhar, Director General, COAI.
Calling it a first-in-the-world regulatory measure, COAI noted that it has been advocating SIM-binding for communication apps to enhance national security and curb cyber fraud. The association believes this new mandate will play a crucial role in improving consumer trust, accountability, and alignment with evolving regulatory frameworks.
Currently, most communication apps verify the SIM only once during installation. They continue functioning even if the SIM is removed, replaced, or deactivated—creating loopholes that have been exploited for anonymity and fraudulent activities. The new DoT directive closes this gap by requiring apps to maintain continuous linkage with the original SIM or registered mobile number, thereby significantly reducing opportunities for misuse.
COAI said the measure will strengthen the fight against spam, fraudulent communication, and financial scams often perpetrated through app-based platforms. Telecom operators, the association added, are fully committed to ensuring smooth implementation of the mandate.
Highlighting the industry’s ongoing efforts, COAI emphasised that operators have already deployed extensive systems to reduce spam and fraudulent SMS and calls. It urged the DoT to enforce similar compliance measures on app-based services to ensure uniform protection for users across all communication channels.
Additionally, COAI has requested the DoT to engage with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to make SMS-based OTP the mandatory primary factor of authentication for all financial transactions. According to COAI, SMS remains the most secure, operator-verified, and traceable channel for authentication—key to reducing financial fraud and maintaining consumer trust.
With the new directive, India moves toward a more secure and accountable digital communication ecosystem—marking a significant leap forward in telecom cybersecurity and consumer protection.
