The Department of Telecommunications (DOT) on Monday issued directions mandating that the Sanchar Saathi app be pre-installed on all phones manufactured or imported for use in India. The aim is to help people verify genuine devices and prevent misuse of telecom services.

The order requires the app to be clearly visible and easy to use during the initial setup of any new handset. Manufacturers are not allowed to hide, disable or restrict any of its features. Companies have 90 days to comply with the order and 120 days to file a compliance report. For devices already in stores, they are expected to add the app through software updates.

Sanchar Saathi is a citizen-centric initiative designed to combat cyber fraud and strengthen telecom security.

Through its portal and app, users can:

Check whether a mobile handset is genuine using its IMEI number

Report suspected fraud calls or messages

Report lost or stolen phones

See all mobile connections issued in their name

Access trusted contact details for banks and financial institutions

The initiative is backed by Telecom Cyber Security (TCS) Rules.