The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has issued a critical directive to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), mandating Aadhaar-based biometric verification for all new SIM card connections. This move aims to curb the rising misuse of mobile connections obtained through fake documents, often used for fraud and other criminal activities.
Mandatory Aadhaar verification for SIM cards
Previously, users could use any government ID, such as voter ID or passport, to obtain a new mobile connection. However, under the new rules, biometric verification via Aadhaar is now compulsory for all new SIM card activations. Retailers are strictly prohibited from selling SIM cards without following this process.
Government's crackdown on Fake SIM cards
The decision follows a recent review meeting of the telecom sector, highlighting the role of fraudulent SIM cards in financial scams. Investigations revealed instances where multiple SIM cards were linked to a single device, violating telecom regulations and facilitating cybercrime.
The PMO has directed the DoT to collaborate with law enforcement agencies and leverage AI tools to identify and penalize offenders. Retailers found issuing SIM cards using fake documents will face stringent action.
Enhanced cybercrime prevention measures
The new order aligns with the government’s broader efforts to combat cybercrime. By enforcing Aadhaar-based verification, the risk of fraud committed using unverified mobile numbers is expected to significantly reduce. This directive also ensures tighter control over the issuance and tracking of SIM cards across the country.
A step towards safer mobile connections
The stricter guidelines underscore the government’s commitment to maintaining the security of mobile networks and safeguarding citizens from fraud. Aadhaar-based biometric verification is now a non-negotiable requirement for obtaining new SIM cards, setting a precedent for secure telecom operations.
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