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In view of the increasing cases of cyber crime and digital fraud in the country, the Central Government has started preparations to further tighten the cyber security standards. According to sources, provisions are being included in the proposed guidelines that will automatically disable certain sensitive apps—especially messaging and digital payment services—when the SIM card is removed from the mobile phone. Its purpose is to prevent misuse of the phone by any unauthorized person.

Digital transactions, UPI payments, OTP based verification and messaging apps are growing rapidly across the country. Along with this, crimes like SIM swapping, fake SIM cards, and data theft have also increased. Cyber ​​security agencies say that in many cases, criminals clone the device by removing the SIM of the phone or misuse the same number to access sensitive accounts. To mitigate this threat, the government is considering new security models like “real-time SIM-device linking”.

According to the proposed rules, a provision for temporary shutdown of services like WhatsApp, Signal, banking apps and digital wallets could be added if the SIM card is removed or suddenly replaced. This will ensure that the app remains active only with the mobile number whose identity is recorded in the government KYC records. This move could especially help prevent cases where criminals try to keep the account active by changing the SIM when the phone is stolen.

Cyber ​​experts say that this step can provide a new standard to digital security. According to him, SIM card is a key pillar of mobile identity. Unless the identity of both the SIM and the device are linked, the security of any app cannot be considered 100%. However, experts also say that if the new rules are implemented, users may have to go through the verification process again and again.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) have recently indicated stringent standards on cyber security. At present these rules are in the draft stage and it may take time to release the final form. The Ministry is of the clear view that any decision will be taken only after extensive consultation, keeping in mind the privacy and security of the citizens.

Consumer organizations say that if this provision is implemented, it can curb SIM fraud to a great extent. But users also need to practice digital hygiene—like keeping app locks, screen locks, and two-factor authentication active.

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