In a decisive move to enhance digital security and combat online fraud, the Indian government has mandated that a state-owned cybersecurity application be pre-installed on all new smartphones. This initiative not only reflects a growing recognition of cybersecurity challenges but also places India at the forefront of implementing proactive measures to protect its vast network of mobile users. The Sanchar Saathi app, a tool designed to tackle issues like spoofed device identities and online scams, aligns with global trends where governments increasingly take an active role in safeguarding their citizens in the digital realm.
The Indian government has officially directed smartphone manufacturers to pre-install a state-owned cybersecurity application, known as the Sanchar Saathi, on all new mobile devices as part of a strategic initiative to curb online scams and related crimes. This directive, issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on November 28 and reported by ZezapTV, allows manufacturers a 90-day period to ensure that the app is pre-loaded on new smartphones and prevents users from disabling it.
In addition to ensuring new devices come equipped with the Sanchar Saathi app, the DoT also requires companies to implement a software update for existing devices already in circulation. Launched in January, the app has quickly gained traction, being available for download by India’s significant smartphone user base of approximately 1.2 billion, with more than five million downloads reported since its inception. The government argues that this app is crucial in addressing serious cybersecurity threats posed by duplicate or spoofed International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers, which are essential for managing stolen phones and fraudulent connections.
To date, the Sanchar Saathi app has successfully contributed to the blocking of over 3.7 million stolen or lost mobile phones and has prevented more than 30 million fraudulent connections. Furthermore, it has assisted in the recovery of more than 700,000 lost devices, signifying its effectiveness in enhancing mobile security.
However, this new directive may face opposition from major technology companies, particularly Apple. The U.S. tech giant has previously resisted similar mandates from the Indian government regarding the pre-installation of any third-party applications, citing internal guidelines prohibiting such practices prior to device sales. Experts, such as Tarun Pathak, a research director at Counterpoint, suggest that Apple may seek a compromise, potentially offering users the option to install the app rather than enforcing mandatory pre-installation.
Critics of the directive, including internet advocacy lawyer Mishi Choudhary, argue that the order may infringe on user consent, effectively limiting meaningful choices for consumers regarding the applications on their devices. There has yet to be any official response from the Department of Telecommunications regarding these critiques.
This move aligns with a broader trend seen in various countries, including Russia, where governments are increasingly demanding greater control over the applications residing on mobile devices to combat misuse and prevent fraudulent activities. The Indian government’s proactive stance signifies its commitment to fostering a secure digital environment for its citizens.
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