Norms for SIM Procurement

On August 17, Union Minister for Telecommunications, Ashwini Vaishnaw, introduced two crucial reforms to enhance the security and integrity of the telecom network in India. These reforms focus on revising norms for bulk SIM procurement and final point of sale (PoS) registration, aiming to curb cybercrimes and financial fraud in the telecom sector.

This topic of “Norms for SIM Procurement” is important from the perspective of the UPSC IAS Examination, which falls under General Studies Portion.

Revisions for Enhanced Security

The introduced reforms bring about significant changes to the norms governing SIM procurement and registration at the final point of sale. These changes are aimed at ensuring that the process is transparent, secure, and closely monitored.

Mandatory Actions for Franchisees, Agents, and Distributors

Registration Requirements: Franchisees, agents, and distributors are now required to register with both the licensees and the telecom network operator.
Operator Responsibilities: The telecom network operators are responsible for conducting “indisputable” PoS verification and police verification for dealers.
Agreement Details: The format of the agreement between PoS and licensees must be in written form.
Compliance Period: Existing providers must comply with these norms within a 12-month duration.

Consequences of PoS Illegal Activities

Agreement Termination: Illegal activities by a PoS may lead to the termination of their agreement.
Blacklist Duration: Any PoS involved in wrongdoing may be blacklisted for a period of three years.
Penalty: A penalty of Rs 10 lakh can be imposed on erring PoS.

Department of Telecommunications’ Statement

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has highlighted the provisions of these reforms. The primary objectives are to identify, blacklist, and eliminate rogue PoS while encouraging compliant and honest ones. This move is intended to minimize fraudulent SIM issuance to anti-social and anti-national elements.

System Changes and Observations by Ashwini Vaishnaw

The reforms have brought about changes in the system, replacing bulk SIM procurement with business connections procured by registered entities. Ashwini Vaishnaw observed that around 20% of bulk-procured SIMs were being misused, leading to issues such as automated calls through SIM-boxes and sequential SIM usage.

New Norms and Enhanced Security Measures

The new norms for business SIM procurement entail thorough KYC procedures for all end-users. To prevent misuse of printed Aadhaar documents, demographic information will be captured through QR code scans. SIM replacements will require the completion of the KYC procedure, and a 24-hour SMS restriction will be imposed.

Authentication Methods and Mobile Number Disconnection Policy

In terms of authentication, the new norms include thumb impressions, iris-based recognition, and facial biometrics. The mobile number disconnection policy states that numbers not allocated within 90 days will be disconnected.

Motivation Behind Reforms: Tackling Cybercrimes

The core motivation behind these reforms is to tackle cybercrimes and financial fraud in the telecom sector. By strengthening the norms for SIM procurement and final PoS registration, the government aims to create a more secure telecom environment for both businesses and consumers.

Strengthening the Sanchar Saathi Portal

To further enhance telecom security, the government launched the Sanchar Saathi portal in May this year. This portal enables users to check connections against names, block stolen or lost mobile phones, report fraudulent or unwanted connections, and verify devices using IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity). The portal utilizes modules like the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) and Telecom Analytics for Fraud Management and Consumer Protection (TAFCOP).