New Telecom Rules Enhance Cyber Security and Fraud Prevention
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) officially announced the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Amendment Rules, 2025, which came into effect on October 22, 2025. This significant update aims to strengthen the framework surrounding mobile number reverification and fraud prevention, ensuring a safer telecommunication landscape for citizens.
Previously, the requirements for reverification and disconnection of mobile numbers were guided by existing licensing conditions and instructions. With the introduction of these new rules, DoT emphasizes its commitment to a citizen-centric approach through the Sanchar Saathi initiative. This program provides vital services, including reporting suspected fraud, blocking lost or stolen mobile devices, verifying the ownership of mobile connections, and calling attention to unauthorized connections linked to a user’s name.
Under the Sanchar Saathi initiative, an impressive 1.44 crore mobile connections have been disconnected due to unsuccessful reverification efforts reported by citizens identifying unauthorized numbers. Furthermore, the DoT has utilized its advanced ASTR tool to identify and disconnect over 86 lakh mobile connections acquired through fraudulent documentation.
Campaigns for Digital Safety
In addition to these measures, the DoT is actively promoting digital safety by launching comprehensive awareness campaigns under the Sanchar Saathi initiative. These outreach efforts include the dissemination of multilingual news articles and advertisements, digital signage in key public areas, and informative broadcasts on television and radio. The campaign also encompasses local activities spearheaded by DoT field units and SMS outreach in collaboration with telecommunications service providers, along with engaging social media content focused on consumer education.
The DoT has enlisted the help of Sanchar Mitras, who are student volunteers trained to raise awareness about digital safety and fraud prevention. Their role involves educating citizens about the features of the Sanchar Saathi portal and app, fostering a deeper understanding at the community level, often delivered in local dialects to enhance accessibility.
Collaboration for Implementation
The DoT is actively collaborating with relevant stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation of the new rules. The Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Amendment Rules, 2025, are poised to have a meaningful impact on the telecom sector, safeguarding users against cyber threats and enhancing overall security.
This information was provided by Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, the Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, in a recent written reply in the Lok Sabha.
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