The Government of India has taken a big step to further strengthen mobile security. The Communications Ministry has directed all major smartphone companies including Apple, Samsung, Vivo and Oppo to pre-install the government’s cyber security app, Sanchar Sathi, on their new devices.
According to media reports, companies have been given 90 days to comply, and the app must be integrated in such a way that users cannot remove or disable it. This app will soon be added to the devices which are already in the supply chain through software update. This order has not been made public, but has been sent privately to the companies.
What is Sanchar Saathi App?
Sanchar Sathi app is the mobile version of the government portal of the same name, which was launched in May 2023. In January 2024, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) launched its mobile app on both Android and iOS platforms to help protect people from mobile theft, fraud and fake connections. Through this app, any user can instantly block their lost or stolen mobile phone on any telecom network in the country. As soon as the phone is used anywhere, its location will be shared with law enforcement agencies.
What does the eye feature do?
The Chakshu feature in the app allows users to report fake calls, spam SMS or WhatsApp messages. This makes it easier to identify cyber frauds and take action against them.
Complete control over number and device information
Sanchar Sathi app also shows how many mobile numbers are registered in your name. If any unknown or unauthorized number is active in your name, it can be reported immediately. Additionally, the KYM (Know Your Mobile) feature in the app verifies the authenticity of the phone and the validity of its IMEI. This makes it easier to identify duplicate or cloned smartphones.
Why does the government want to make this app mandatory?
According to reports, the government aims to curb fake IMEI, cloned mobile phones and cyber fraud. Incorrect IMEI numbers often lead to large-scale scams and network abuse. Making communication partner mandatory is being considered a big step towards preventing such incidents.
How helpful has this app proved to be?
Since its launch, the app has been downloaded by more than 5 million people. According to government data, with the help of Sanchar Saathi, more than 3.7 million stolen or lost mobile phones have been blocked, and more than 30 million fraudulent mobile connections have been terminated. The government believes that having this app in every new phone will significantly reduce cyber crime and mobile fraud in the future.
