New SIM Card Rules From December 1 Bring Stricter Verification and Heavy Penalties
The Central Government has introduced stricter SIM card rules from December 1, making identity verification mandatory while imposing heavy penalties and possible jail terms for violations by dealers and operators.
Tougher SIM Card Rules to Take Effect
New Delhi : Buying a new SIM card will become more regulated from December 1 as the Central Government introduces stricter rules aimed at curbing cybercrime, online fraud and activities involving fake identities. The new framework places greater responsibility on both customers and SIM card dealers, with severe penalties for those who fail to comply.
Officials said the changes have been introduced after investigations found that many cybercrimes and anti national activities were linked to mobile numbers obtained using forged or misleading documents.
Identity Verification Made Mandatory
Under the revised rules, customers purchasing a SIM card must provide Aadhaar and demographic details for verification. An individual will be allowed to obtain a maximum of nine SIM cards under a single identity.
The government has also changed the process for recycled mobile numbers. A deactivated SIM number will now remain inactive for 90 days before it can be allotted to another customer, reducing the risk of misuse.
New Rules for SIM Card Dealers
The government has made registration compulsory for every SIM card dealer and retailer. Dealers must complete the registration process by submitting required business and identity documents, including Corporate Identification Number, Limited Liability Partnership Identification Number or business licence, Aadhaar or passport, PAN and Goods and Services Tax registration certificate where applicable.
If dealers submit fake documents, telecom operators will be required to block their registration immediately. Authorities will also reverify the documents of customers who obtained SIM cards through such dealers.
Heavy Penalties for Violations
Telecom operators that allow SIM cards to be sold through unregistered dealers can face fines of up to Rs 10 lakh. Dealers who fail to complete registration before the deadline may also face financial penalties and, in serious cases, imprisonment.
Bulk purchase of SIM cards will now be restricted to businesses and companies with valid commercial requirements. The earlier practice of unrestricted bulk purchases has been discontinued to reduce fraudulent activities.
Government Targets Fraudulent Mobile Connections
Union Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had earlier said that the revised rules are intended to prevent scam calls and strengthen the country’s telecom security framework. He added that nearly one million SIM dealers across India would be given adequate time to complete police verification and registration requirements.
The need for tighter regulation was highlighted by a major crackdown in Punjab earlier this year, when police blocked around 180000 SIM cards that had allegedly been activated using fake identities. Authorities also arrested 17 people in connection with the case.
