Why in the news?

  • The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has mandated the pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi app on all new mobile handsets manufactured or imported for sale in India.

Sanchar Saathi App

  • Launch: 2023
  • Ministry: Ministry of Communication
  • Aim: It is a citizen-centric digital platform that helps users track, secure, and authenticate their mobile connections.
  • Objectives
    • Prevent misuse of mobile connections.
    • Detects fraud, identity theft, and illegal telecom activities.
    • Help citizens secure/locate lost or stolen mobile phones.
    • Enhance KYC integrity in telecom services.
    • Support law enforcement agencies with accurate device data.
  • Features for Citizens
    • Check mobile numbers linked with your identity.
    • Report fraudulent SIMs.
    • Block/track lost devices using IMEI.
    • Check smartphone authenticity (whether it is stolen or duplicate).
    • Protect against cyber fraud, financial scams, and identity misuse.
    • Facilitates real-time alerts and verification.

Source: The Hindu