Sanchar Saathi app now made mandatory for all new smartphones in India; Older devices will get the app via software updates
At the beginning of this year, the Sanchar Saathi mobile app was officially launched, allowing users to report cyber fraud or fake calls directly from their mobile devices. This app was a citizen-centric initiative of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
Previously, it was up to the users whether they wanted to install the Sanchar Saathi mobile app or not, but now DoT has issued directions for the pre-installation of this app in all the new smartphones manufactured or imported for use in India.
The manufacturers are said to ensure that the app is readily visible and accessible to end users at first use or during device setup and that its functionalities are not disabled or restricted. For the already launched mobile phones in India, the manufacturers and importers of mobile handsets shall endeavour to push the app through software updates.
The implementation of this new order is said to be completed in 90 days, and to submit the report in 120 days. This new rule applies to all brands- Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo, Oppo, and others.
The Sanchar Saathi app mandate is issued to safeguard citizens from buying non-genuine handsets, enable easy reporting of suspected misuse of telecom resources, and increase the effectiveness of the Sanchar Saathi initiative. This initiative is said to curb the misuse of telecom resources for cyber fraud and ensure telecom cybersecurity.
Sanchar Saathi app helps in-
- Reporting scam or spam calls/SMS
- Blocking your lost or stolen phone using its IMEI
- Checking if any SIM is issued in your name without your knowledge
- Confirming if your phone is original or fake
- Getting alerts for suspicious international calls
The app is said to have already helped recover 7 lakh+ lost or stolen phones, blocked millions of fake devices, and stopped crores of fraudulent SIM connections.
