The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India has unveiled a new portal powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that enables users to track and block lost or stolen mobile phones. The portal utilizes the unique identification number of the device, known as the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI), to deactivate the device even if a new SIM card has been inserted. This initiative aims to enhance consumer protection and prevent fraudulent activities related to mobile connections. Through the portal, mobile users can discover if any additional connections have been obtained under their name fraudulently, and take appropriate measures to block them. Additionally, the system enables users to check the number of mobile connections registered in their name. Communications Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized that the reforms are consumer-centric and aimed at empowering users to safeguard their mobile devices and personal information. Moreover, the portal incorporates an AI algorithm that determines the number of connections associated with a specific user. This feature ensures that any mobile connection taken in a user’s name across the country can be detected and blocked. The government also plans to deactivate fraudulent accounts on popular messaging platform WhatsApp, cooperating with the platform and other over-the-top (OTT) service providers to ensure customer safety. The implementation of this AI solution has yielded promising results so far.
Over 870 million mobile connections have been analyzed, leading to the identification of 4 million suspected mobile numbers, the deactivation of 3.6 million mobile numbers, and the blacklisting of more than 40,000 point-of-sale locations involved in fraudulent activities. The Minister cited examples of cases where multiple connections were obtained using the same image of a subscriber with different names, highlighting the need for improved security measures. The forthcoming telecom bill will prioritize user safety and seek to simplify regulations in the sector. The government aims to finalize the revised draft of the bill by July. The telecom industry has displayed positive growth and is expected to attract investments totaling approximately Rs 2 lakh crore in the coming years.
The launch of the Sanchar Saathi portal has been welcomed by the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), representing major private telcos such as Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea. The COAI commended the government’s citizen-centric initiative, emphasizing its potential to empower mobile subscribers and ensure the safety and security of their devices. The portal’s various modules are expected to reduce mobile phone theft incidents, detect anomalies, and prevent misuse and fraud. Users can now conveniently manage their mobile connections, trace lost devices, and verify the authenticity of mobile devices during purchases.