In a decisive move that could reshape how Indians interact with their smartphones, the central government has directed all mobile phone manufacturers and importers to pre-install the ‘Sanchar Saathi’ application on every new device entering the Indian market. The mandate, issued on November 28, aims to shield consumers from unknowingly purchasing counterfeit devices and to strengthen the country’s defence against telecom-related cyber fraud.

The order requires that the Sanchar Saathi app must be clearly visible and immediately accessible to users during the initial device setup. Manufacturers have also been told not to restrict or disable any of the app’s functionalities. For devices already produced and circulating in retail channels, companies have been asked to push the app through software updates—an effort they must complete within 90 days and formally report within 120 days.

The Sanchar Saathi platform, developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), offers citizens a suite of tools to safeguard their digital identity. It allows users to verify the authenticity of a mobile device through its IMEI number, report stolen or lost phones, flag suspicious calls or messages, check any unauthorized mobile connections issued in their name, and access verified contact details for banks and financial institutions.

But the Centre’s push doesn’t stop there.

In a separate statement, the DoT revealed a worrying trend: certain app-based communication platforms were allowing users to operate services even when the registered SIM card was not present in the device. This loophole—used widely by apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, Signal, ShareChat, JioChat, Josh, and Arattai—has allegedly become a tool for cybercriminals operating from outside the country.

The DoT said this method has been flagged by multiple security and intelligence agencies, prompting a series of discussions with leading communication app providers. The issue, known as “SIM binding,” has drawn particular concern for its role in cross-border cyber fraud.

Given the gravity of the situation, the department issued fresh directions to these major communication apps under the Telecom Cyber Security (TCS) Rules, 2024, instructing them to prevent misuse of telecom identifiers and protect the integrity of India’s digital ecosystem.

According to the DoT, “Department of Telecommunication (DoT) has issued directions on November 28 in this regard,” reinforcing the seriousness of the threat and the urgency of compliance.

With the new rules now in place, the coming months will reveal whether these steps succeed in closing long-exploited security gaps—or uncover new challenges in India’s fast-evolving cyber landscape.