New SIM Card Rule: You Can’t Get a SIM Without This Document; Check Details Here

The government has made Aadhaar-based biometric verification mandatory for all new SIM cards to stop fraud and cybercrime. Retailers must follow this rule, or they will face heavy fines. The DoT will track SIM cards to detect fake connections.

Feb 21, 2025, 19:27 IST
New SIM card rule aims to reduce SIM card fraud and cyber crimes.
New SIM card rule aims to reduce SIM card fraud and cyber crimes.

New SIM Card Rules: The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has directed the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to make Aadhaar-based biometric verification mandatory for all new SIM cards. This rule aims to reduce SIM card fraud and cyber crimes.

The goal of this action is to stop the growing abuse of mobile connections that are acquired using forged documents and are frequently used for fraud and other illegal activities.

New Rules for Getting a SIM Card

In the past, users could get a new cellphone connection using any form of official identification, including a passport or voter ID. However, the new regulations now require biometric identification through Aadhaar for all new SIM card activations. It is strictly forbidden for retailers to sell SIM cards without following this procedure.

  • Aadhaar-based biometric verification will be required for every new SIM card.
  • To buy a SIM, the customer's photo will be captured from 10 different angles.
  • DoT will monitor all SIM cards linked to a person’s name.
  • If multiple SIM cards are active on the same device, they will be checked to detect fake connections.

Punishment for Breaking the Rules

  • Strict action will be taken against retailers selling SIM cards without biometric verification.
  • Such retailers will face heavy fines and may also be banned from selling SIM cards.

Why was there a Need for New Rules?

The decision comes after a recent telecom sector review meeting that brought attention to the part that fraudulent SIM cards play in financial schemes. Numerous SIM cards were connected to a single device in some cases, which violated telecom laws and enabled cybercrime, according to investigations.

The DoT has been instructed by the PMO to work with law enforcement and use AI technologies to find and punish criminals. Retailers who are caught using forged paperwork to issue SIM cards will be subject to harsh penalties.

New SIM Card Rules Will Stop Cyber Crime?

The new regulation is in line with the government's larger initiatives to stop cybercrime. It is anticipated that the danger of fraud with unconfirmed cellphone numbers will be greatly decreased by implementing Aadhaar-based verification. Additionally, this regulation guarantees more stringent oversight of SIM card issuing and tracking nationwide.

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Online fraud will be Stopped?

The government's dedication to preserving mobile network security and protecting citizens from fraud is demonstrated by the more stringent regulations. This sets a precedence for safe telecom operations by making Aadhaar-based biometric verification a mandatory requirement for new SIM cards.

Vidhee Tripathi
Vidhee Tripathi

Content Writer

Vidhee Tripathi completed her PG Diploma degree in Digital Media from Indian Institute of Mass Communication, New Delhi. She is a graduate in Science with chemistry honors from Banaras Hindu University. She has 2 years of experience in various aspects of journalism. She was previously associated with the social media wing of Akashvani. At jagranjosh.com, currently she covers current affairs, national news and international news. She is also associated with the education news section of Jagran Josh.

Certificate: Creative Writing, Problem Solving, Web Content Writing
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