Smartphone fraud, SIM misuse, and mobile theft cases are increasing rapidly in India. To tackle these issues, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has announced a new policy: every new smartphone sold in India must have the Sanchar Saathi app pre-installed.
This rule is expected to be implemented soon, and manufacturers will have to follow it strictly.
The main purpose of this policy is to protect users from mobile-related fraud and make smartphones safer. The app will also help the government keep track of illegal devices and block stolen phones instantly.
What Is Sanchar Saathi?
Sanchar Saathi is a digital safety platform launched by the Department of Telecommunications (DOT), Government of India. It helps mobile users secure their phones, check the authenticity of devices, and avoid fraud.
The app combines multiple telecom services in one place, such as checking if your mobile is genuine, how many SIM cards are linked to your ID, and blocking stolen smartphones. Its main aim is to make mobile users safer and more aware in the digital world.
Why the Government Made the App Mandatory
The government decided to make Sanchar Saathi mandatory because of rising cases of:
- Smartphone theft
- Fake SIM card activation
- Fraud through cloned mobile numbers
- Misuse of lost phones
- Cybercrimes related to mobile identity
Many criminals use duplicate SIMs and fake smartphones to cheat people. With Sanchar Saathi, the government can track illegal activities faster, and users can secure their devices easily.
By making the app mandatory on smartphones, the DoT wants to ensure that every citizen has access to mobile safety tools without needing to download them manually.
Features of Sanchar Saathi APP
1. CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register)
Helps users block their phone if it gets lost or stolen
Prevents thieves from using the device
Allows users to unblock the device after recovery
2. Know Your Mobile (KYM)
Shows whether your mobile is original or fake
Lets users check device details using IMEI
Helps avoid buying duplicate or blacklisted phones
3. TAF-COP (Telecom Analytics for Fraud Management & Consumer Protection)
Helps users see how many mobile numbers are registered with their ID
Allows reporting if any unknown SIM is linked
Protects against identity misuse
4. SIM Card Check
Lets users track SIMs issued using their documents
Detects fraudulent or unauthorized SIM cards
5. Fraud Alerts & Notifications
Warns users about suspicious activity
Provides updates about telecom scams
6. Device Tracking and Security Tools
Assists in tracking stolen devices
Helps ensure only verified IMEI numbers work in India
What the DoT’s Order Says (Simplified Explanation)
The DoT’s new order instructs smartphone makers (like Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo, Apple, etc.) to:
- Pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on all new devices sold in India
- Ensure the app cannot be removed easily
- Make sure the app works smoothly during device setup
For users, this means:
- Every new phone will already have Sanchar Saathi installed
- No need to download or install anything manually
- The app will open during setup to verify device safety features
This rule is part of India’s efforts to strengthen digital security and reduce mobile fraud.
Sanchar Saathi on Android and iPhone
On Android Phones
- The app will come pre-installed on all future Android devices
- Manufacturers must integrate it into the initial setup
- Users can access security features directly from the home screen
On iPhones (Apple Devices)
- iPhones will also need to comply with the DoT’s policy
- Apple may provide a system-level integration
- The app will be available on the App Store or pre-loaded depending on Apple’s implementation
- Some features (like SIM checking) may work differently due to Apple’s privacy design
Both platforms will be required to follow Indian telecom rules.
Sanchar Saathi’s Privacy Concerns
Many users have raised questions about data privacy.
Common concerns include:
- Will the app track devices?
- Does it collect personal data?
- Can the government monitor users through it?
The government has stated that:
- The app does not read personal messages or media
- It does not track user locations
- Data is used only for fraud prevention
- IMEI numbers and SIM data are protected under telecom laws
However, privacy experts warn that:
- Any mandatory app raises transparency concerns
- Users should know what data is collected
- The government must ensure strict data protection
So while the app is safe for general use, more clarity and audits may be needed to boost public trust.
Conclusion
The Sanchar Saathi app is a strong step toward improving digital safety in India. With rising cases of fraud, fake SIMs, and smartphone-related crimes, the app provides useful tools for users to secure their devices.
Making the app mandatory means every user will have access to mobile protection features without extra effort. However, transparency and clear communication about privacy are essential to ensure that users feel safe and confident while using the app.
As India moves toward stronger digital security laws, Sanchar Saathi could become an important part of the country’s mobile safety ecosystem.