Mangaluru: Mobile phones and SIM cards have become an essential part of everyday life, but having multiple connections registered under one person’s name can also create security risks. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has rules limiting the number of mobile connections an individual can hold.
Contrary to recent claims suggesting that the government has introduced a completely new nine-SIM rule, the maximum limit of nine mobile connections for an individual has existed under DoT guidelines since 2012. The limit applies across telecom service providers and licensed service areas, while the limit is six in Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and the North-East Licensed Service Areas.
What happens if you have more than nine SIMs?
DoT’s subscriber re-verification instructions state that connections beyond the permitted limit are in violation of the existing guidelines. Subscribers may be required to surrender, transfer or disconnect excess connections.
DoT has also been using data analytics and other technology to identify potentially fraudulent mobile connections. Its Digital Intelligence Platform supports the sharing and identification of telecom-related digital intelligence and misuse.
Check SIM cards registered in your name
Mobile users can check all connections issued in their name through the government’s Sanchar Saathi services. The TAFCOP facility allows users to identify mobile connections registered under their names and report connections that they do not recognise or no longer require.
The government says these services are aimed at protecting consumers and tackling misuse of telecom resources, including fraudulent connections.
Users are therefore advised to periodically check the numbers registered in their names and report any unfamiliar connection through the official Sanchar Saathi platform.