In an effort to tackle the rising incidents of scams and fraud related to counterfeit SIM cards, the Department of Telecommunications has introduced new regulations set to come into effect from December 1. This move by the government signifies a strong commitment to ensuring the security and integrity of mobile communication networks across the country.
As of December 1, individuals, both consumers and vendors alike, will need to adhere to the updated SIM card rules implemented by the Department of Telecommunications. The decision to reschedule the implementation from October 1 to December 1 underscores the gravity of the situation and emphasizes the need for all stakeholders to be well-informed.
The primary objective behind these regulatory changes is to curb the growing number of scams and fraud cases involving counterfeit SIMs. The Central Government, understanding the detrimental impact of such activities, is determined to enforce stringent measures to safeguard the interests of mobile phone users.
A crucial aspect of the new regulations is the mandatory verification process imposed on SIM card dealers. Registration is now a prerequisite for selling SIM cards, and telecom operators are tasked with conducting police verification. Failure to comply with this regulation can result in substantial fines, with a penalty of Rs 10 lakh being imposed for non-compliance.
Customers looking to purchase SIM cards for their existing phone numbers are now required to undergo Aadhaar scanning and provide demographic data. This additional layer of verification is aimed at enhancing the overall security of the SIM card issuance process.
Bulk issuance of SIM cards is now subject to stricter regulations, limiting it to individuals with a business connection. Despite this, individuals can still obtain up to 9 SIM cards using a single ID, maintaining a balance between individual convenience and regulatory control.
It’s crucial for all SIM card vendors to register by November 30 to ensure compliance with the new regulations. Failure to do so may result in penalties of up to Rs 10 lakh and potential imprisonment. The new rules also impose restrictions on the issuance of SIM cards in large quantities, emphasizing the importance of responsible and secure SIM card management.
