India Mandates Pre-Installation of Sanchar Saathi App to Combat Telecom Fraud
In a decisive move to bolster national cybersecurity, India’s telecommunications ministry has mandated that all mobile device manufacturers pre-install the government-backed Sanchar Saathi app on new smartphones within the next 90 days. This directive, issued on November 28, 2025, also requires that the app be pushed to devices already in the supply chain through a software update. Notably, the app is designed to be irremovable and cannot be disabled by users.
Sanchar Saathi: A Comprehensive Tool Against Telecom Fraud
Sanchar Saathi is a multifaceted application available on both Android and iOS platforms. It empowers users to:
– Report Suspicious Activities: Users can flag potential fraud, spam, and malicious web links received via calls, SMS, or WhatsApp.
– Block Stolen Devices: The app provides functionality to block stolen handsets, preventing unauthorized use.
– Monitor Mobile Connections: Subscribers can check the number of mobile connections registered under their name, aiding in the detection of unauthorized accounts.
A particularly significant feature is the ability to report international calls that falsely display India’s country code (+91). Such calls are often routed through illegal telecom setups over the internet, masquerading as domestic calls. By reporting these incidents, users assist the government in identifying and dismantling illicit telecom exchanges that pose threats to national security and result in financial losses to the exchequer.
Impressive Adoption and Impact
Since its launch in May 2023, Sanchar Saathi has seen substantial adoption:
– Installations: Over 11.4 million downloads, with significant uptake in Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.
– Device Management: The service has blocked more than 4.2 million lost devices, traced 2.6 million, and successfully recovered approximately 723,638 devices.
Privacy and Permissions
The app requires several permissions to function effectively, including access to SMS, phone status, media files, camera, and device ID. While these permissions are essential for its features, they have raised privacy concerns among users and advocacy groups.
Global Context: A Parallel with Russia’s MAX App
India’s initiative mirrors actions taken by other nations to enhance digital security. For instance, Russia mandated the pre-installation of its homegrown messenger app, MAX, on all smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs sold in the country starting September 1, 2025. Critics have raised concerns about potential user tracking, though state media have dismissed these claims.
Balancing Security and Privacy
The Indian government’s directive underscores the delicate balance between enhancing national security and preserving individual privacy. While the Sanchar Saathi app offers robust tools to combat telecom fraud, the mandatory pre-installation and its non-removable nature have sparked debates about user autonomy and data privacy.
Looking Ahead
As the 90-day implementation period progresses, it will be crucial to monitor:
– User Reception: How consumers respond to the mandatory inclusion of the app.
– Effectiveness: The app’s impact on reducing telecom fraud and enhancing cybersecurity.
– Privacy Safeguards: Measures taken to ensure user data is protected and used responsibly.
The success of this initiative will depend on transparent communication from the government, collaboration with device manufacturers, and ongoing engagement with the public to address concerns and optimize the app’s functionality.
