New Rules For SIM Verification, fine upto 10 lakhs.

Delhi: The central government announced new rules for SIM verification, discontinuing the provision of issuance of bulk connection, and making verification mandatory for dealers selling SIM cards. The new rules come at a time when the government is working to tackle cyber fraud cases.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued two crucial circulars, one targeting individual SIM card users and the other aimed at telecom companies like Airtel and Jio, with the goal of regulating and improving the process.

Tougher Regulations for Retailers:

Retailers of SIM cards are required to carefully evaluate all of their staff members.

Each non-compliant development might face fines of up to 10 lakhs for failing to follow this legislation. On October 1, 2023, these regulations take effect. Existing stores have until September 30, 2024, to comply with the new rules.

Increased Security in Particular Areas:

Police Checks in Some Areas: Before being allowed to sell new SIM cards, telecom firms must pass police inspections in their retail locations in places like Assam, Kashmir, and the northeast.This additional security precaution is put in place to strengthen security in critical places

Telecom companies responsibility:

Big telecommunications companies like Airtel and Jio should also check the stores that sell their SIM cards. They have to make sure that the stores follow the rules. This is to keep things safe and secure.

Demographic data collection:

Under the KYC reforms, the demographic details of the customer will be captured by scanning the QR code of the printed Aadhaar in case of taking new SIMs or applying for a fresh SIM on an existing number.

No Bulk Issue Of SIM Cards:

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) had discontinued the provision of bulk connections, replacing it with the concept of business connections. Apart from the KYC verification of businesses, the KYC of the person taking the handover of SIM will also be performed. Individuals can still take up to nine SIMs on the basis of one identification.

Disconnection of SIM:

The mobile number will be allocated to a new customer 90 days after the disconnection. In case of replacement, the subscriber will have to complete the KYC process, with a bar of 24 hours on outgoing and incoming SMS facilities.