The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit number assigned to every mobile phone. This number plays a crucial role in identifying devices on mobile networks. For instance, even if a SIM card is changed, the IMEI remains constant, allowing authorities to track lost or stolen phones effectively.
Criminals often clone or tamper with IMEI numbers to disguise stolen or illegal devices. This practice not only threatens user safety but also hampers investigations and poses national security risks. For example, a stolen phone may be assigned a fake IMEI, making it appear as a completely different device on the network.
All mobile brands—including Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo, Realme, and others—must pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on every handset sold in India.
The app significantly enhances device security by:
For example, if two devices share the same IMEI, the Sanchar Saathi app alerts authorities and blocks potential misuse.
Manufacturers are required to:
For instance, a new phone purchased in India should have the Sanchar Saathi app ready for use upon first boot.
Most phones already in stores may receive the app through software updates. The implementation for foreign-purchased devices is still being finalized. For example, a handset bought in the US may require a brand-specific update later.
Under the Telecommunications Act 2023, IMEI tampering is classified as a non-bailable offense. Penalties include:
Users have expressed concerns regarding data privacy and the mandatory nature of the installation. Some fear that skipping the update may affect their phone's functionality. For example, many are uncertain whether their device will operate properly without installing the app.
The government aims to build a safer digital ecosystem by reducing counterfeit devices, curbing IMEI fraud, and giving users more control over their device security.
India now mandates all mobile manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app to protect users from counterfeit devices and IMEI misuse. The app verifies device authenticity, blocks stolen phones, and identifies cloned IMEI numbers. Manufacturers must comply within strict deadlines under the Telecommunications Act 2023. While this move enhances consumer security, concerns remain regarding data privacy, updates for existing devices, and implementation for phones purchased abroad.
Q1. What is the purpose of the IMEI number?
Answer: The IMEI number uniquely identifies mobile devices on networks, enabling tracking of lost or stolen phones and ensuring device authenticity.
Q2. What is the Sanchar Saathi app?
Answer: Sanchar Saathi is an app mandated for pre-installation on mobile devices in India, designed to enhance security by verifying IMEI authenticity and blocking stolen phones.
Q3. What are the penalties for IMEI tampering?
Answer: Under the Telecommunications Act 2023, penalties for IMEI tampering include imprisonment for up to three years and fines reaching ₹50 lakh.
Q4. Are existing phones required to install the Sanchar Saathi app?
Answer: Most existing phones may receive the Sanchar Saathi app through software updates, while implementation for devices purchased abroad is still being finalized.
Q5. Why do some users have concerns about the Sanchar Saathi app?
Answer: Users are concerned about data privacy and the mandatory nature of the app, with fears that not updating may affect their phone's functionality.
Question 1: What is the primary function of the IMEI number?
A) Identifying the user
B) Tracking mobile network usage
C) Identifying mobile devices
D) Monitoring internet speed
Correct Answer: C
Question 2: What does the Sanchar Saathi app help prevent?
A) Battery drainage
B) IMEI fraud
C) Software bugs
D) Network congestion
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Which act governs penalties for IMEI tampering in India?
A) Information Technology Act
B) Telecommunications Act 2023
C) Consumer Protection Act
D) Digital India Act
Correct Answer: B
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