DoT extends SIM-binding deadline for OTT platforms to December 31

Exam-focused facts from the 4 April 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) extended the SIM-binding implementation deadline for OTT platforms to December 31.
The original 90-day compliance window was set after DoT issued directions on November 28, 2025, under the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Rules, 2024.
The mandate for automatic six-hour logout and QR-code re-authentication on web and desktop sessions has been withdrawn; a risk-based termination approach for suspected fraud cases is now adopted.
Platforms including WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, Signal, and Arattai cited technical readiness timelines of October-November 2026 for full SIM-binding across Android and Apple ecosystems.