Sanchar Saathi is a cyber-safety app + web portal launched by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to help users track or block lost/stolen phones (via IMEI), check how many mobile connections are registered under their name, report suspicious/fraud calls or messages, and verify device authenticity.
It also provides a “fraud reporting” feature (sometimes referred to as “Chakshu”) that lets users flag spam, scams, or malicious communication via call/SMS/links.
📜 What recently changed (Nov–Dec 2025)
On 28 November 2025, the government quietly issued a directive to smartphone manufacturers/importers — all new phones sold in India must come with Sanchar Saathi pre-installed and visible from first boot.
The directive applies also retroactively: for phones already manufactured, companies must push the app via software update within 90 days.
⚠️ Why it’s controversial (privacy / surveillance debate)
Several opposition politicians and digital-rights groups have strongly criticized the mandate, calling the app a “snooping tool”. They argue it violates the right to privacy and could allow mass surveillance of citizens.
Critics worry that if the app cannot be disabled or removed, it effectively gives the government or telecom authorities control over people’s phones.
🧑💼 Government’s response & middle-ground
Officially, the government says the app is “citizen-centric” — meant to fight phone theft, fraud, device cloning and illegal connections.
On 2 Dec 2025, the telecom minister clarified that the app is optional — users can delete/uninstall it, and activation requires user consent.
Some handset makers (especially those focused on user privacy globally) are reportedly pushing back; for instance Apple is said to resist forced pre-installation citing security and privacy concerns.
✅ What Sanchar Saathi can do (if used voluntarily)
Block or trace stolen/lost phones — once blocked via IMEI, the phone becomes unusable even if SIM is changed.
Let users check how many mobile connections (SIMs) are registered in their name — helps detect identity misuse or unauthorized SIMs.
Report fraud/spam and suspicious communication (calls, SMS, malicious links), helping telecom/cybercrime authorities take action.