What is Sanchar Saathi? Why does the government want this app to be present on every new smartphone?

Sanchar Saathi App: The Indian government has taken a major step to further strengthen mobile security. The Ministry of Communications has instructed all major smartphone companies, including Apple, Samsung, Vivo, and Oppo, to pre-install the government's cybersecurity app, Sanchar Saathi, 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. Devices already in the supply chain will have the app added via a software update soon. This order has not been made public but has been sent privately to the companies.

What exactly is the Sanchar Saathi app?

The Sanchar Saathi app is the mobile version of the government portal of the same name, which was launched in May 2023. In January 2024, the DoT launched its mobile app on both Android and iOS platforms to help people protect themselves 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 Chakshu 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 and take action against cyber fraud.

Complete control over the number and device information

The Sanchar Saathi 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 prevent fake IMEI numbers, cloned mobile phones, and cyber fraud. Incorrect IMEI numbers often facilitate large-scale scams and network misuse. Making Sanchar Saathi mandatory is considered a significant step towards largely preventing such incidents.

How helpful has this app been?

Since its launch, the app has been downloaded by over 5 million people. According to government data, Sanchar Saathi has helped block more than 3.7 million stolen or lost mobile phones and terminate over 30 million fraudulent mobile connections. The government believes that having this app on every new phone will significantly reduce cybercrime and mobile fraud in the future.