Union Minister for Communications and Development of the Northeastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, has issued a key clarification regarding the Sanchar Saathi mobile security platform, emphasising that the app remains entirely voluntary, despite the recent directive on mandatory pre-installation in mobile handsets.
His clarification comes shortly after the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) instructed all smartphone manufacturers and importers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on devices sold in India. This announcement raised concerns among users about compulsory usage and data privacy, prompting an official reassurance.
A Voluntary, Citizen-Centric Mobile Security Platform
The Minister reiterated that users have full freedom to activate, deactivate, or delete the Sanchar Saathi app at any time. The pre-installation requirement does not mean mandatory usage.
Scindia stated that consumer protection remains a core priority for the government, and Sanchar Saathi has been built to empower mobile users with transparency, safety, and control over their mobile identity. He clarified that the platform is not a surveillance tool and does not compromise privacy in any form. Instead, it operates as a citizen-driven system under the Jan Bhagidari model.
Documented Impact Since Launch
Sanchar Saathi has demonstrated significant impact since its rollout, with millions of citizens using its features to safeguard their mobile identity and prevent fraud. Key milestones include:
21.5 crore+ portal visits
1.4 crore+ app downloads
1.43 crore+ mobile numbers disconnected after being marked as “Not My Number”
26 lakh lost or stolen mobile handsets traced
7.23 lakh recovered devices returned to rightful owners
40.96 lakh fraudulent connections disconnected through citizen reporting
6.2 lakh fraud-linked IMEIs blocked
₹475 crore in potential financial losses prevented using the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI)
These figures highlight the platform’s crucial role in enhancing mobile safety and reducing digital fraud across India.
Cybersecurity and User Participation
Sanchar Saathi integrates user-friendly fraud detection and reporting tools directly into call logs, enabling quick reporting of suspicious activities. This proactive system allows users to help protect themselves and others, creating a strong community-led defence against cyber threats.
According to Scindia, the platform supports India’s broader cybersecurity objectives by empowering users while fully preserving their privacy rights. Its purpose is to safeguard mobile consumers, strengthen digital trust, and foster mass participation in cybersecurity awareness.
Conclusion
The government’s clarification ensures that while the Sanchar Saathi app will now come pre-installed on new smartphones, its use remains optional and entirely user-controlled. With strong features that help trace devices, disconnect fraudulent numbers, and prevent financial fraud, the platform stands as a powerful yet voluntary tool for securing mobile identities in India.
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The post Govt Issues Clarification on Sanchar Saathi: Pre-Loaded for Safety, Optional to Use, No Surveillance Involved appeared first on Before You Take.