In a significant move aimed at enhancing security and curbing cyber fraud, India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced stricter norms governing the issuance of SIM cards to customers. The new regulations are designed to address vulnerabilities that have allowed fraudsters to exploit the ease of obtaining SIM cards from telecom companies, leading to various cybercrimes. The DoT’s latest guidelines introduce comprehensive procedures for the issuance of SIM cards, raising the bar for verification and authentication.
Enhanced Verification for Point of Sale (PoS) Entities
Under the new norms, telecom operators will be required to rigorously verify and authenticate every Point of Sale (PoS) entity before they are authorized to enroll new customers on behalf of the telecom company. This involves a thorough documentation process, including the submission of the representative’s Aadhaar or passport details, corporate identity number or business license, work address, local residential address of the PoS representative, and more.
Furthermore, the verification process extends to the PoS representative, who must undergo authentication using biometrics. This biometric authentication can be accomplished through Aadhar-based e-KYC, adding an additional layer of security to the verification process.
Police Verification in Select States
In specific states, including Assam, Kashmir, and North East Licensed Service Areas (LSAs), the PoS entities will be subjected to police verification before a formal agreement is reached between the telecom operator and the PoS entity. This written agreement will encompass crucial provisions related to customer enrollment, operational boundaries, and penalties for any breach of the agreement’s terms.
Preventing Delegation of Activities
To maintain stringent control over the SIM issuance process, telecom companies are now mandated to ensure that their PoS entities do not delegate their responsibilities to third parties. This measure aims to maintain accountability and prevent unauthorized individuals or entities from participating in the customer enrollment process.
Unique PoS ID Requirement
To further bolster security, the government has made it mandatory for each PoS entity to be assigned a unique PoS ID. Only entities with a unique PoS ID will be authorized to enroll new customers on behalf of telecom operators, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access and potential fraud.
Effective Implementation Date
These comprehensive new guidelines are set to take effect from October 10, 2023. Telecom operators will need to swiftly adapt to these enhanced procedures to ensure the integrity of the SIM issuance process and mitigate the risks associated with cyber fraud.
By introducing these stringent measures, the DoT aims to create a safer and more secure environment for telecom customers while also fortifying the telecom industry’s defenses against cyber threats. The proactive approach to regulating SIM issuance underscores the government’s commitment to cybersecurity and safeguarding the interests of telecom users across India.
