Misuse of a SIM card could prove costly; it could lead to a fine of ₹50 lakh and imprisonment..

The misuse or illegal use of a SIM card issued in your name could land you in serious trouble. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) issued a warning on Monday, cautioning the public that if a SIM card issued in their name is found to be involved in a crime, it could result in a fine of ₹50 lakh and a prison term of up to three years.

The DoT has warned mobile users against allowing others to use SIM cards issued in their names. The department cautioned that obtaining SIM cards fraudulently, misusing telecom identifiers, or tampering with IMEI numbers could invite strict legal action. Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, such offenses can lead to imprisonment for up to three years and a fine of up to ₹50 lakh.

**Who needs to pay attention?**
The warning issued by the DoT is particularly relevant for individuals who may have SIM card connections active in their names without their knowledge. It is also crucial for those who have handed over their SIM cards to others for use. The department has advised people to regularly check the 'Sanchar Saathi' portal and mobile app to ensure there are no active SIM cards in their names that they are unaware of.

**Why was this advisory issued?**
This advisory follows a recent cybercrime investigation in Chhattisgarh, where a Point of Sale (PoS) agent activated 25 mobile connections using people's documents without their knowledge or consent. Upon verification, several of these numbers were found to be illegal and were subsequently deactivated. This incident highlights how a SIM card can be activated in your name without your permission, potentially allowing these fraudulent SIM cards to be used for cybercrimes or other illicit activities. 

Tampering with IMEI is also illegal.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued an advisory to be cautious of modems, SIM boxes, and other devices where the IMEI number has been altered or tampered with. The IMEI is a unique number used to identify a mobile device. The department has also advised against using apps, websites, or tools that alter Calling Line Identity (CLI) or other telecom identification information. According to the DoT, such alterations can pose risks to the security and reliability of the telecom network.

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