Is the Centre Mandating Pre-Installed 'Sanchar Saathi App' on All New Mobile Phones?
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Synopsis
The Centre has directed that the 'Sanchar Saathi' app be pre-installed on all new mobile devices in India, enhancing security against fraud. This initiative aims to protect consumers and strengthen telecom integrity.
Key Takeaways
- All new mobile handsets in India must have the 'Sanchar Saathi' app pre-installed.
- The initiative is aimed at preventing non-genuine product sales.
- App functionalities must remain accessible and intact.
- Existing devices are encouraged to receive the app through software updates.
- The initiative supports telecom cybersecurity.
New Delhi, Dec 1 (NationPress) In a bid to protect citizens from acquiring non-genuine products, the Centre announced on Monday that it has instructed mobile phone manufacturers and importers to ensure that the 'Sanchar Saathi' mobile application is pre-loaded on every new mobile device produced or brought into India.
This initiative will facilitate the straightforward reporting of suspected telecom resource misuse and enhance the overall efficacy of the 'Sanchar Saathi' program.
According to guidelines released on November 28, mobile manufacturers and importers must guarantee that the pre-installed Sanchar Saathi application is easily visible and accessible to users at the moment of first use or device setup, ensuring that its functionalities remain intact and are not disabled.
Moreover, for devices that have already been produced and are available in Indian sales channels, manufacturers and importers should strive to push the app through software updates.
Companies are required to complete this implementation within 90 days and submit a compliance report within 120 days.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is spearheading the Sanchar Saathi initiative to combat the misuse of telecom resources for cyber fraud and to strengthen telecom cybersecurity.
The department has developed a Sanchar Saathi portal and app, enabling citizens to verify the authenticity of a mobile device via its IMEI number, in addition to offering features like reporting suspected fraudulent communications, lost or stolen mobile devices, checking mobile connections registered under their name, and providing trusted contact details for banks and financial institutions.
In a related statement, the DoT noted that it has identified instances where certain app-based communication services utilizing Indian mobile numbers for customer verification or service delivery allow users to access services without the necessary Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) within the device running these services.
This loophole is being exploited to commit cyber frauds, particularly by individuals operating outside the country.
The issue of SIM binding in messaging applications and its misuse has been highlighted by numerous government agencies and an inter-ministerial group.
In response, the DoT has engaged in discussions with leading app-based communication service providers about the feasibility and importance of addressing this issue. Providers such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, Arattai, Sharechat, Josh, Jiochat, and Signal were included in these talks.
Given the seriousness of the situation, the DoT issued directives to major app-based communication services on November 28 under the Telecom Cyber Security (TCS) Rules, 2024 (as amended) to prevent the misuse of telecommunications identifiers and to uphold the integrity and security of the telecom ecosystem.
In summary, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has released directives regarding this matter on November 28, as stated in their official communication.
Point of View
The government's decision to enforce the pre-installation of the 'Sanchar Saathi' app on new mobile devices reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding consumers against fraud. This initiative is vital in enhancing the security of the telecom ecosystem, ensuring that citizens can confidently use their devices without fear of falling victim to cyber fraud.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the 'Sanchar Saathi' app?
The 'Sanchar Saathi' app helps verify the authenticity of mobile devices and allows users to report suspicious activities related to telecom resources.
Who is required to pre-install the app?
Mobile phone manufacturers and importers must ensure the app is pre-loaded on all new handsets made or imported for use in India.
What happens to devices already in sales channels?
Manufacturers and importers are expected to implement software updates to push the app to devices that are already available for sale.
What is the timeline for implementation?
Companies have 90 days to complete the app's implementation and must submit a compliance report within 120 days.
How does this initiative affect telecom security?
This initiative aims to curb cyber fraud and enhance overall telecom security, protecting consumers and the integrity of the telecom ecosystem.
