Sanchar Saathi: The Government’s Permanent Shield on Every New Phone

Updated: December 01, 2025 23:53

Image Source: Sarkaritel

India has ordered all smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on new devices to combat telecom fraud and enhance user security, sparking both praise for improved safety and concern over privacy implications.

The Indian government has mandated that all new smartphones sold in the country must come pre-installed with the Sanchar Saathi app, a move aimed at boosting digital security and curbing telecom fraud. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) issued the directive, requiring manufacturers and importers to ensure the app is prominently visible and accessible to users during their first device setup, with no restrictions on its functionalities.

Key Highlights:

Mandatory Pre-Installation: Smartphone makers, including global giants like Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, and Oppo, must pre-install Sanchar Saathi on all new devices within 90 days. Devices already in the market will receive the app through software updates.
Fraud Reporting Made Easy: The app allows users to report fraudulent calls, messages, and lost or stolen mobile phones directly from their device, streamlining the process and reducing response time.
Enhanced Security Features: Sanchar Saathi helps users check the number of mobile connections registered in their name, verify the genuineness of their handset, and report suspicious international calls with Indian numbers.
Privacy Concerns Raised: The move has sparked debate among privacy advocates, with some expressing concerns about potential surveillance and the lack of public consultation before the mandate.
User Empowerment: The app is designed to be user-friendly and is available in multiple languages, empowering citizens to protect their digital identity and report misuse with ease.

While the government claims this step will strengthen telecom security and safeguard citizens from fraud, critics argue that making the app unremovable and mandatory could set a precedent for increased state surveillance. The initiative is part of broader efforts to create a safer digital ecosystem, but balancing security with privacy remains a challenge.

Sources: Times of India, The Indian Express, Hindustan Times, PIB, Economic Times, Business Standard

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