The government has mandated the compulsory pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi mobile application on all mobile handsets manufactured or imported for use in India, strengthening efforts to verify handset authenticity and curb telecom-related fraud.
Key points
- The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has instructed manufacturers and importers to ensure the app is pre-installed, clearly visible, and readily accessible at the time of first device setup. The move aims to protect citizens from purchasing non-genuine devices, enable easy reporting of suspected misuse of telecom resources, and enhance the overall effectiveness of the Sanchar Saathi initiative.
- The DoT has further directed that the app’s functionalities must not be disabled or limited. Manufacturers and importers have also been advised to push the application via software updates to devices already manufactured and currently in sales channels.
- The implementation is to be completed within 90 days, with compliance reports to be submitted within 120 days.
About Sanchar Saathi App
- The Sanchar Saathi App is a citizen-centric mobile application launched by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to enhance user safety, prevent mobile-related fraud, and promote secure telecom practices in India.
- The app provides key services such as verifying the authenticity of mobile handsets through the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number, identifying and blocking lost or stolen phones, and reporting suspected misuse of telecom resources.
- It also helps users check the number of mobile connections registered in their name and allows them to flag unauthorized connections. By empowering citizens with real-time verification tools and simplifying grievance reporting, Sanchar Saathi strengthens digital trust, curbs cyber-enabled fraud, and supports the government’s broader mission to secure India’s telecom ecosystem.
What is IMEI Number
- An IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a unique 15-digit identifier assigned to every mobile handset, distinguishing it from all other devices worldwide.
- This number helps telecom operators and authorities track a device’s legitimacy, block stolen or lost phones, and prevent misuse of mobile networks.
- By verifying the IMEI, users can ensure that a handset is genuine and not tampered with or cloned.
- The IMEI also plays a crucial role in national security and anti-fraud systems, allowing regulators and law enforcement agencies to disable compromised devices and maintain the integrity of the telecom ecosystem.
