In an era increasingly defined by digital connectivity, cybersecurity has become paramount. However, the methods employed to bolster security should not come at the expense of individual liberties. The Indian government’s mandate for smartphone manufacturers to preload the state-owned Sanchar Saathi app on all new devices has sparked a heated debate, raising concerns about privacy and potential misuse.
The Sanchar Saathi Directive: Security vs. Privacy
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has ordered major smartphone brands to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app on all new handsets sold in India. Users will not have the option to uninstall the app, making it a permanent fixture. While the Telecom Minister refutes that it is mandatory, the order clearly states that the app and its functionalities must not be disabled or restricted.
(The Indian Express)
Mandatory Preloading: Impact on the Mobile Market
This directive will significantly impact India’s $48 billion mobile market. While the government aims to combat cyber fraud and enhance traceability, concerns are mounting about the potential for increased surveillance. Prioritizing security through mandatory preloading may undermine individual privacy and rights. Concerns are mounting regarding state access to citizen’s data.
Transparency Concerns and Government Oversight
The lack of transparency surrounding the Sanchar Saathi app’s operation is alarming. The order was privately shared with companies and not made publicly available. Coupled with existing government exemptions under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA), which shields state-run applications from stringent privacy regulations, this mandate becomes even more suspect. The centralized tracking and extensive data collection enabled by the app, without clear public oversight or clarity on data use, creates the foundation for misuse and mass surveillance.
Circumventing the System: A False Sense of Security
The government claims that preloading the app will boost adoption and enhance fraud prevention, strengthening telecom security baselines. The Sanchar Saathi app was launched earlier in 2025 and government data claims it has helped recover over 600,000 lost or stolen phones. However, professional cybercriminals can easily bypass restrictions by using phones without the tracking software, rooting devices to override it, or masking IMEI numbers with spoofing tools. This mandate is unlikely to deter professional cybercriminals.
Alternative Solutions: Strengthening Enforcement and Awareness
Instead of mandatory preloading, India could focus on strengthening existing laws, increasing state capacity for cybercrime enforcement, and launching multilingual awareness campaigns. Investing in specialized cyber forensic labs, training law enforcement, and creating interstate cyber units with cross-jurisdictional powers may be better suited. Streamlined portals for grievance redressal can empower enforcement over mandates, curbing fraud sustainably.
Disclaimer
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. The author is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information is provided “as is,” with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness, or of the results obtained from the use of this information.
Image Credit: The Indian Express
