Bhubaneswar, Dec. 2 -- In a major step to bolster digital safety, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed all mobile phone manufacturers to pre-install the cyber security application Sanchar Saathi on every new smartphone. The directive aims to curb cyber fraud, prevent mobile theft and tackle the issue of fake IMEI numbers, thereby ensuring stronger protection for mobile users nationwide.

According to the order, the Sanchar Saathi app must be integrated into every device at the manufacturing stage. Manufacturers have also been instructed that the app cannot be deleted or uninstalled under any circumstances. The DoT has granted companies 90 days to comply with the mandate. In addition, the app will be rolled out to older ...