- By Deeksha Gour
- Mon, 01 Dec 2025 10:32 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued fresh directions to smartphone manufacturers, requiring them to preinstall the government-developed cybersecurity application Sanchar Saathi on all new mobile phones sold in India from March 2026. The app must remain visible, active and cannot be removed by users, officials said.
The instruction, sent to all major smartphone manufacturers and importers also asks companies to release software updates to ensure the app reaches devices already sold in the country. Industry executives said smartphone firms are likely to raise concerns, as this policy directly affects companies such as Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo and Vivo.
New Compliance Rules For Smartphone Firms
According to the DoT order, the app must be preinstalled in every new handset and its services must not be disabled or restricted in any way. Makers have been given 90 days to comply and a formal report must be submitted within 120 days.
Instructions For WhatsApp And Telegram
The directive forms part of a wider push to strengthen cybersecurity. Alongside this move, the DoT has recently instructed platforms such as WhatsApp and Telegram to implement SIM binding meaning these apps will work only with the SIM card used during the initial registration.
Officials said the measure is aimed at safeguarding users from fraud, illegal handset sales and misuse of telecom services.
What Is Sanchar Saathi?
Launched in 2023, the Sanchar Saathi app helps users track and block stolen or lost mobile phones using the device’s IMEI number. It also allows people to report fraudulent calls, SMS and suspicious online communication.
What Sanchar Saathi Enables Users To
- Block or locate lost phones
- Check all mobile connections registered in their name
- Verify if a handset is genuine
- Report spam, scam calls and malicious links
- Report international calls appearing with Indian numbers
Government data shows the platform has been widely used. Till August, it had more than 50 lakh downloads. Over 42 lakh devices have been blocked and more than 26 lakh stolen phones traced using the system. The Sanchar Saathi website has also resolved more than 254 lakh requests related to mobile connections.
App Seen As Key To Fighting Fraud?
A senior official said the mandatory installation will make it easier for users to report fraud without searching for the website or remembering their IMEI number. The app, the official added, is “advanced enough” to handle fraud reporting efficiently.
The DoT said the move is expected to protect citizens from counterfeit devices and improve the use of telecom resources.