In today’s digital world, mobile phones have become an essential part of daily life. People use mobile numbers everywhere—from online banking to social media—making them an important identity tool. However, with the rise of digital services, issues like SIM fraud, phone theft, cyber scams, and unauthorized mobile connections have also increased. To address these challenges, the Government of India launched the Sanchar Saathi portal and mobile app, a comprehensive digital platform designed to enhance user security and empower citizens to manage their mobile connections more effectively.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) launched Sanchar Saathi to reduce fraud, improve transparency, and give mobile users better control over their personal mobile number information. Let’s explore what this app does, how it works, and why it has become a valuable tool for millions of Indians.
What Is the Sanchar Saathi App?
Sanchar Saathi is a user-friendly digital platform that provides several security features related to mobile connections. The app helps individuals identify the SIM cards issued in their name, block a lost or stolen phone, track misuse of mobile identities, and report suspicious activities. It integrates multiple services under one portal, such as CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register) and TAFCOP (Telecom Analytics for Fraud Management and Consumer Protection).
The main mission behind Sanchar Saathi is to ensure that mobile users remain protected from fraudsters who misuse mobile numbers for illegal activities like identity theft, unauthorized SIM activation, or financial scams.
Key Features of the Sanchar Saathi App
The Sanchar Saathi platform includes several important features that are designed to protect users:1. CEIR – Block Lost or Stolen Phones
If someone loses their mobile phone or it gets stolen, one of the biggest concerns is misuse of the SIM card or personal data. Sanchar Saathi’s CEIR facility allows users to:
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Block the phone using its IMEI number
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Prevent others from using the device on any mobile network
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Unblock the device once it is recovered
This feature is extremely useful as it stops the thief from inserting another SIM and reusing the phone, making stolen phones nearly useless.
2. TAFCOP – Check Mobile Connections Linked to Your Name
Many people are unaware of how many SIM cards have been issued under their identity. Sometimes, fraudsters use forged documents or stolen Aadhaar details to issue unauthorized SIM cards.
TAFCOP helps users:
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Check all mobile numbers issued in their name
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Identify suspicious or unknown numbers
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Request disconnection of unauthorized SIMs
This feature has become especially important for preventing OTP-related fraud, SIM swap scams, and misuse of personal identity.
3. Phone Verification and Tracking Support
Sanchar Saathi allows users to verify the authenticity of devices using the IMEI database. If a device has tampered IMEI or duplicated IMEI, users can be alerted. This helps reduce the circulation of fake or cloned mobile devices.
4. Easy Online Complaint Filing
Users can file complaints related to mobile fraud, illegal SIM use, and telecom-related irregularities directly through the platform. It improves response time and ensures that authorities receive complete information.
5. User-Friendly Dashboard
The interface of the Sanchar Saathi app is simple and intuitive. Users can easily navigate through the dashboard, check their registered numbers, file requests, or block phones with just a few steps.
How to Use the Sanchar Saathi App
Using the Sanchar Saathi platform is straightforward. Here’s how you can make use of its key services:
1. To Check Mobile Numbers Registered to Your Name
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Install the Sanchar Saathi app or visit the official website.
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Enter your mobile number and complete OTP verification.
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The dashboard will show all the mobile numbers linked to your identity.
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Select the numbers you do not recognize and report them for action.
2. To Block a Lost or Stolen Phone Using CEIR
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Find the IMEI number of your phone (usually printed on the phone box or accessible through Google Find My Device if synced).
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Visit the CEIR option in the app.
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Fill in details like mobile number, device information, and FIR copy if available.
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Submit the request to block the device.
3. To Unblock a Recovered Phone
After getting your device back, you can request the portal to unblock the IMEI.
Simply open the Unblock section, enter your request ID, and complete verification.
Why Sanchar Saathi Is Important in Today’s Digital Age1. Protection from Identity Theft
Unauthorized SIM activation is a serious issue in India. If someone uses your identity to get a SIM card, it can be misused for illegal activities. Sanchar Saathi helps prevent that by giving you full visibility of active connections.
2. Helps Reduce Cybercrime and Mobile Fraud
Mobile-based scams, including SIM swapping and phishing, are growing rapidly. By allowing users to monitor SIM usage and block stolen devices, the app acts as a strong defense system.
3. Supports Law Enforcement
When a stolen phone is blocked using CEIR, law enforcement agencies can track and recover the device more easily using IMEI technology.
4. Ensures Transparency in the Telecom System
Telecom operators are required to maintain accurate records of SIM subscribers. Sanchar Saathi supports the government’s efforts to ensure that telecom data remains clean, verified, and fraud-free.
Who Should Use the Sanchar Saathi App?
The platform is beneficial for:
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Individuals who want to secure their mobile identity
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Parents who wish to monitor mobile use for family members
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People who lost or misplaced their phones
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Anyone concerned about digital safety
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Senior citizens who may be more vulnerable to mobile scams
Conclusion
The Sanchar Saathi app is a significant step by the Government of India to protect mobile users and create a safer digital ecosystem. By providing tools like CEIR and TAFCOP, the platform empowers citizens to take control of their mobile connections, prevent fraud, and respond quickly in case of theft or unauthorized SIM usage.
As mobile phones continue to play a central role in our personal and financial lives, security becomes more important than ever. Sanchar Saathi brings that security closer to every user, making digital communication safer, smarter, and more transparent.
