The Telecom Ministry has told every smartphone company, including Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, and others, to install the government’s Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app on all new phones. Companies have 90 days to follow the order, and users will not be allowed to delete or disable the app.

What is Sanchar Saathi?

Sanchar Saathi is a safety platform made by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). It is available as an app and a website. Its main job is to help people protect their mobile identity, report suspicious activity, and learn about cyber safety. It also shares simple lessons on how to stay safe from scams and online risks.

The app can already be downloaded on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Key features of the app

‘Chakshu’ for reporting suspicious messages: Users can report fake KYC messages, scam calls, and phishing links. This helps officials notice fraud patterns, but any real money fraud must still be reported to 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in.

Report spam calls and SMS: The app lets users complain about unwanted commercial calls or messages. If reported within seven days, action can be taken against the sender.

Flag unsafe links and apps: People can report phishing websites, dangerous APK files, and other harmful links. This helps authorities respond faster to cyber threats.

Check how many SIMs are linked to your ID: The app shows all mobile numbers registered using your identity, helping people spot SIM cards taken without permission.

Block stolen or lost phones: Users can block the IMEI number of a stolen device so it cannot be used. It can be unblocked once the phone is found.

Verify if a phone is original: Sanchar Saathi lets users check a phone’s IMEI number to confirm if it’s genuine, helpful when buying a second-hand device.

Report foreign calls that look like Indian numbers: Scammers sometimes use illegal systems to make foreign calls look like +91 calls. The app lets users report such cases.

Find local internet service providers: By entering a PIN code or address, users can see which wired internet providers operate in their area.

Check trusted helplines: The app offers a list of verified customer-care numbers, emails, and websites of banks and other important services.

Why is the government pushing for preloading?

The Centre says Sanchar Saathi has already helped reduce mobile-related crimes. India has over 1.2 billion mobile users, and phone scams, identity theft, and device theft are common problems.

Officials say the system has helped recover more than 7 lakh lost or stolen phones, including 50,000 in October alone.

Why is the order facing pushback?

The directive has created tension because it clashes with policies followed by companies like Apple. Apple does not allow external apps, including government apps, to be forced onto its devices, and it avoids apps that users cannot delete.

Other smartphone makers worry this could open the way for more compulsory apps in the future. Privacy groups have also raised concerns, saying that making an app mandatory reduces user control over their device and their data. The government, however, says the app’s only aim is to improve digital security.