In the recent past, you, like many others, have most likely read about the Sanchar Saathi App, the latest step taken by the government of India to enhance the security of the telecommunication sector in India. But just why is it that there is now the sudden urge towards ensuring that the Sanchar Saathi Mandatory to all new smartphones? Why then is there so much controversy over the Centre and phone makers? We will simplify it in a conversational manner.
So, what exactly is the Sanchar Saathi App the tool that lets you track and manage your mobile connections in seconds?
First, the Government of India, through the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), developed the Sanchar Saathi App to help users protect their mobile devices from fraud, theft, and misuse. In other words, it acts like your personal mobile bodyguard, safeguarding every aspect of your mobile identity.
Key Features of the Sanchar Saathi App
1. CEIR – Track or Block Lost or Stolen Phones
In the event of a phone loss or theft, the app allows you to block its IMEI immediately hence preventing its usage.
2. Know Your Mobile (KYM)
Prior to purchasing a new or second-hand phone, ensure that the phone is not blacklisted or it is a fake phone.
3. Check Mobile Connections to Your ID
Additionally, the app allows you to determine the number of phone numbers issued using your documents, thereby enabling you to detect suspicious SIM cards instantly.
4. Fraudulent Calls or Messages on Reporting
Makes it easy to report fraudulent calls to the authorities.
Why the Government Wants Sanchar Saathi Mandatory
In recent times, the government instructed all the mobile makers to install the Sanchar Saathi App in all new mobile phones sold in India. It is in this respect that the name Sanchar Saathi Mandatory originates.
What’s the reason?
The DoT indicates that the mandate is to:
- Firstly, prohibit the sale and use of counterfeit or cloned mobile devices.
- Subsequently, minimise phone-associated mobile number cyber frauds.
- Furthermore, design a more secure Internet.
The government explained this is not the matter of collecting data, but security.
Full Story in 5 Quick Points
- To begin with, all new phones sold by handset manufacturers are required to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi App.
- As a result, the mandate aims to combat counterfeit mobile phones and curb the rising incidence of cyber fraud.
- However, mobile phone manufacturers protested against the requirement, describing it as a compliance and privacy burden.
- In response, the government explained that the app does not invade user privacy and instead provides essential security measures.
- Looking ahead, consumers are expected to encounter this app on every new smartphone in the future.
Benefits of the Sanchar Saathi App
- Maximizes protection of your phone.
- Helps track lost devices
- Prevents fake mobile sales
- Easy fraud reporting
- Helps ensure a secure telecom world.
Conclusion
The Sanchar Saathi App is a bold move towards the safety of India telecom ecosystem. Regardless of whether you support the idea of the Sanchar Saathi Mandatory implemented by the government or not, the app definitely provides some useful security features that can be enjoyed by every smartphone user. Sanchar Saathi is like a life saver in the virtual world as mobile fraud is steadily increasing.
FAQs
1. Is the Sanchar Saathi App mandatory for all users?
Ans) It will automatically come pre-installed on all new phones, though the user is not required to actively use the product.
2. Is the app safe to use?
Ans) Firstly, the Department of Telecommunications designed the app with a strong focus on security.
3. Can I uninstall the app?
Ans) This could differ according to the phone manufacturing companies, based on compliance regulations.
4. Does Sanchar Saathi track my personal data?
Ans) Secondly, the government states that it does not collect any personal information and instead only provides security tools.
5. How does the app help stop cyber fraud?
Ans) It allows its users to report the numbers of fraud immediately and also do not allow misuse of stolen or fake devices.
