India mandates Indian SIMs in devices for app use to boost security and traceability, without requiring mobile data.

India’s new SIM-binding rule for communication apps, aimed at curbing fraud and unauthorized use, requires an active Indian SIM in devices but doesn’t need mobile data, allowing continued use via Wi-Fi or local SIMs. The Cellular Operators Association of India says it’s a security measure like UPI, doesn’t expand data collection, and aligns with standard reauthentication practices in banking and Aadhaar. Enterprise systems remain unaffected, and the rule applies only at the user level to ensure traceability without disrupting business operations.