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A smartphone without a SIM card is essentially an empty shell; you cannot use services like WhatsApp or UPI on it. However, rushing to get a SIM card can land you in serious trouble. Under the Department of Telecommunications' strict regulations, obtaining a SIM card using incorrect documents can result in up to three years of imprisonment and a fine of up to ₹50 lakh. Do you know how many unknown numbers are active against your ID? Find out everything here.

Avoid these five mistakes when buying a new SIM card: You could face a fine of ₹50 lakh or imprisonment; here is what you need to know.
1. Always use valid proof of identity
This is the most important point to consider when buying a SIM card. Always provide valid proof of identity when purchasing a new SIM, as your identity is verified through the KYC process before the SIM is issued.
Therefore, avoid obtaining a SIM card using another person's documents, a fake ID, or incorrect paperwork. It is much safer to have the SIM registered in the name of the person who will actually be using it.

2. Do not provide incorrect or false information
Providing incorrect information in a rush to get a SIM card can have serious consequences. Deliberately providing wrong details regarding your name, address, or identity—or using another person's identity—can be a serious offense.
Similarly, obtaining a SIM card using a fake ID or incorrect documents can lead to trouble. Regulations stipulate that such cases can attract up to three years of imprisonment, a fine of up to ₹50 lakh, or both.

3. Do not get a SIM card on your ID for someone else
People often obtain a SIM card using their own ID for a friend, relative, or acquaintance, considering it a routine matter. However, you should avoid getting a SIM card for another person using your ID whenever possible. The reason is that if the SIM is issued in your name, the records will link the number to you. If that number is subsequently used for illicit activities, you could face questioning or legal complications. Therefore, it is always best to get the SIM card in the name of the person who will actually use it. 

4. Get KYC done only at authorized locations
When purchasing a new SIM card, it is crucial to ensure that the KYC process is carried out at an authorized Point-of-Sale (PoS) or through the telecom company's legitimate procedure.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has established a registration and verification system for SIM-issuing Points-of-Sale. The objective is to curb the fraudulent issuance of SIM cards.
Therefore, do not buy a SIM from an unknown person on the roadside simply because of a cheap offer. It is best to avoid anyone who offers to provide a SIM without proper KYC or suggests bypassing mandatory regulations.

5. How many SIMs are active in your name?
Many people are unaware of how many mobile numbers have been issued in their name and ID. Consequently, it is important to periodically check if any unknown mobile number is active in your name.
Users can view details of mobile connections issued in their name via the government's 'Sanchar Saathi' platform. If you spot a number that you did not obtain, you can report it. Keeping track of connections issued in your name is essential, as the misuse of an unknown number linked to you could lead to complications.
Also, be aware that a maximum of nine SIM cards can be issued to a single individual. Therefore, it is important to know how many mobile connections are already active in your name. If you notice a number in your name that you did not acquire, do not ignore it; report it immediately.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.