Fake SIM Card: India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a strict warning to mobile users. The department says that if a SIM card issued in your name is used in cyber fraud or illegal activities, then you may have to go to court even if you have never used that connection. That means if the SIM is in your name then its entire responsibility will also be considered yours.
Which mistakes can land you in jail?
DoT has clearly said that users should avoid any activity which can lead to legal action. These include use of phones with changed IMEI. If you use a phone whose IMEI number has been tampered, you may have to face action.
Taking SIM with fake documents
Getting or getting a SIM by using fake identity card, wrong documents or misusing someone’s identity is a serious crime.
Giving your SIM to someone else
The most important warning is to never give your properly purchased SIM to any third person. This method is most used by cyber criminals.
New Telecommunications Act 2023
Under the new law, tampering with telecom identifiers (like SIM, IMEI) or indulging in SIM fraud will now be considered a major crime. The punishment included in this is jail up to 3 years, heavy fine up to Rs 50 lakh. If your SIM is used in a crime, it can be considered complicity in the crime even if you did not commit the crime.
How to protect yourself?
DoT has appealed to the citizens to use Sanchar Saathi portal or app. This platform gives you information about all the SIMs registered in your name. Provides the facility to check whether the IMEI number of any mobile device is genuine or not. With this, you can immediately remove any suspicious SIM running in your name and strengthen digital security.
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