New SIM Card Rules: 3 Years Jail & ₹2 Lakh Fine for Misuse

New Delhi, 2 March – (www.deccanlive.com): The telecom industry has introduced new rules for SIM cards, which everyone should know. The government has also changed regulations for SIM retailers to prevent cyber fraud.

Smartphones have become an essential part of daily life, and a valid SIM card is necessary for phone usage. Without a SIM, a phone cannot function.

To prevent cyber fraud, new strict rules have been implemented regarding SIM cards. Violating these rules can lead to up to 3 years in jail and a fine of ₹2 lakh.

Stay updated with these important SIM card regulations to avoid penalties!

The government has introduced new rules for SIM card activation and sales to prevent fraud and misuse. Here are the key updates:

Aadhar Verification Now Mandatory

• According to CNBC TV18, biometric Aadhar verification is now compulsory for activating new SIM cards.

Retailers Must Follow New Procedures

• Retailers must check how many SIM cards a customer already has.
• If a customer has SIM cards under different names, it will be investigated.
• Retailers must also capture the customer’s photo from 10 different angles before selling a SIM.

Fine for Having More Than 9 SIM Cards

• As per DoT (Department of Telecommunications) rules, a person can only have 9 SIM cards linked to their Aadhar.
• Penalty for violation:
  • ₹50,000 fine for the first offense.
  • ₹2 lakh fine for repeated offenses.

Jail for Illegal SIM Card Use

• If a SIM card is obtained using fraudulent methods, the person can face up to 3 years in jail.

If you get a SIM card using the wrong method, you may face a fine of up to ₹50 lakh and 3 years in jail. To avoid issues, it is important to check how many SIM cards are linked to your Aadhaar. If you are not using a SIM, you should disconnect it immediately.

Keep a Record of SIMs Linked to Your Aadhaar

• Always track the SIM cards linked to your Aadhaar.
• Unlink any number that you are not using to avoid misuse.
• You can check and remove numbers within seconds.

How to Check Mobile Numbers Linked to Aadhaar

1. Go to sancharsaathi.gov.in
2. Click on the “Mobile Connection” option
3. Enter your contact number
4. An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number
5. After entering the OTP, you will see all numbers linked to your Aadhaar
6. Report and block any numbers you do not recognize or no longer need

By following these steps, you can secure your Aadhaar-linked SIMs and avoid penalties or legal trouble.