Cyber fraud has become a global headache, and India is no exception. The recent surge in cybercrime cases has prompted the government to implement measures to combat the issue.
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One such measure directs all telecom operators nationwide to register individuals selling SIM cards to customers. While not a new directive, the deadline for adherence has been extended to March 31, 2025.
The government is implementing stricter regulations on new SIM card issuance to combat cyber fraud. One measure being considered targets individuals who have registered more than the permitted nine SIM cards under their name. Current regulations stipulate a maximum of nine SIM cards per individual.
According to the new rules, telecom companies will have to register their agents, franchisees, and SIM card distributors. If they fail to do so, they will be barred from selling SIM cards from April 1 onwards.
This new rule adds an additional layer of transparency and security to the SIM issuance process. So far, private telecom operators such as Reliance Jio, Vodafone Idea, and Bharti Airtel have completed their registration, while Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is yet to do so.
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To support BSNL, the government has granted a two-month extension for SIM dealer registration. From April 1, 2025, only registered SIM card distributors will be authorised to sell SIM cards to customers.
