Cyber Security App 'Sanchar Saathi' to Be Pre-Installed in New Smartphones

The Indian government has ordered smartphone companies to pre-install the 'Sanchar Saathi' cyber security app in all new smartphones. According to the directive, companies like Apple, Samsung, Vivo, Oppo, and Xiaomi have been given 90 days to comply. This app, which cannot be disabled by users, will be installed in new devices. For older phones, the app will be added through a software update.

This directive has been sent privately to select companies, and is not yet publicly available. The primary goal of this initiative is to curb cyber fraud, fake IMEI numbers, and phone theft. So far, the 'Sanchar Saathi' app has helped recover over 7 lakh lost or stolen phones. A senior government official stated, "The app is crucial for preventing scams involving fake IMEI numbers and network misuse."

What is the 'Sanchar Saathi' App and How Will it Help?

'Sanchar Saathi' is a government-designed cyber security tool that was launched on January 17, 2025. The app is currently available for voluntary download on both Apple and Google Play stores, but will now be mandatory on all new phones.

• The app will help users report fraudulent calls, messages, or WhatsApp chats.
• Users can check the IMEI number and block stolen or lost phones.

Increasing Cyber Crime Due to Fake IMEI Numbers

India has over 1.2 billion mobile users, making it the largest market in the world. However, the rise of fake or duplicate IMEI numbers has led to increased cybercrime. The IMEI is a unique 15-digit code that identifies a mobile device. Criminals clone IMEI numbers to evade detection, commit scams, or sell stolen phones on the black market. The government claims that the 'Sanchar Saathi' app will help police track devices more effectively. According to the Department of Telecom (DoT), 22.76 million devices have already been traced.

Apple's Policy and Industry Concerns

Industry sources report that the lack of prior consultation with companies has led to concerns, especially for Apple, as the company has a policy that prohibits pre-installing third-party or government apps before a phone is sold. Apple previously had conflicts with telecom regulators over the installation of anti-spam apps. Industry experts believe that Apple may negotiate with the government or offer users a voluntary prompt. However, no company has yet commented on the directive.

Benefits for Users

Users will benefit directly from this move. In the event of a stolen phone, they can check the IMEI and block it immediately. Reporting fraud calls will help reduce scams. However, privacy groups may raise concerns about the inability to delete the app. Users will have less control over the app, but future updates may include features like better tracking or AI-based fraud detection. The DoT believes this will take telecom security to the next level.