Users won’t be allowed to delete the app, as government ramps up digital security via device tracking and tighter data rules.
Sanchar Saathi to Become Default on All New Smartphones
In a bold move to fight cybercrime and phone fraud, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has ordered all smartphone manufacturers to preload the government’s Sanchar Saathi app on every new device sold in India.
- The app will be locked on the phone, and users cannot uninstall it.
- The order, dated November 28, has been sent privately to major players like Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo, and Oppo, according to Reuters.
- Manufacturers have 90 days to comply, while existing inventory must receive the app via software updates.
This mandate marks a new phase in India’s cyber surveillance and digital safety regime, particularly after a year plagued by data breaches and online fraud.
What Is Sanchar Saathi?
Sanchar Saathi is a government-backed cyber safety platform launched earlier to help individuals:
- Block stolen mobile devices remotely
- Track lost phones
- Identify and flag fake or duplicate IMEI numbers
The app integrates with the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) system and other national telecom infrastructure to assist law enforcement and prevent misuse of mobile networks.
By making the app a non-removable feature, the government seeks to ensure universal compliance and real-time access to telecom safety tools.
Policy Comes Amid Rising Cybercrime
The new directive closely follows the final notification of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules, 2025, which operationalize the DPDP Act, 2023. Together, these moves reflect increased regulatory oversight on both device-level data access and user privacy.
- According to CERT-In, cybersecurity incidents in India rose from 10.29 Lakh in 2022 to 22.68 Lakh in 2024.
- India is now one of the most targeted countries globally, with ransomware, phishing, and supply-chain attacks being dominant threats.
- The government estimates that cyber fraud losses totaled INR 22,845.73 Cr in 2024.
These alarming figures have prompted a comprehensive overhaul of India’s digital security framework.
SIM Binding for Messaging Apps Also Enforced
In parallel, the DoT has also mandated SIM binding for messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, ShareChat, Snapchat, JioChat, Josh, and Arattai.
- Users must now access these apps only from devices containing the SIM used during registration.
- Additionally, web versions must auto-logout every six hours, restricting persistent access across multiple or remote devices.
This mandate is part of the Telecommunication Cybersecurity Amendment Rules, 2025, in force since October.
The government believes such apps have been exploited by overseas cybercriminals, especially due to their ability to function without physical SIMs in the device.
Industry & Consumer Impact
These sweeping digital security measures will have wide-ranging implications for:
- Smartphone users: who will have less control over preloaded software, raising concerns over user autonomy.
- Manufacturers: who must reconfigure OS layers and supply chains to comply within a strict timeline.
- Privacy advocates: who may question the implications of non-removable government apps and potential data tracking.
- Messaging platforms: which must rework backend systems to meet compliance, likely affecting user experience and international accessibility.
Balancing Cybersecurity and Digital Rights
While the government frames these mandates as necessary for national cyber resilience, they also raise critical questions about:
- User consent and digital rights
- Transparency in data usage by government apps
- The balance between security and freedom in a digitally connected economy
This balancing act will define the next phase of India’s digital governance journey, especially as the nation continues its push for tech-driven public infrastructure.
