Archive · 12 Dec 2025
Govt Makes Sanchar Saathi App Optional
The Indian government launched the Sanchar Saathi app in 2023 to help fight cyber fraud and trace lost or stolen phones.
Initially, they wanted to make it mandatory for all smartphones, but many people and groups were worried about privacy and having the government always on their phones.
After lots of criticism, the government changed its mind and said the app would be optional.
The app helps people report suspicious calls and check if their phones are real.
The government says it doesn't collect data without permission and that the app is useful for stopping cybercrime.
However, some people are still concerned about how safe the app is and whether it could be used for more than just fighting fraud.
The government now says people can choose whether or not to use it, which balances safety and personal freedom.
Sanchar Saathi app was launched in 2023 to combat cyber fraud and trace stolen devices.
Initially, the government mandated pre-installation of the app on all smartphones without an uninstall option.
Widespread criticism from various groups led the government to clarify that the app will be optional.
The app helps users report suspicious calls and verify device authenticity.
Concerns were raised about privacy, informed consent, and the potential for future mandatory apps.
- Who
- Union government of India
- What
- Made Sanchar Saathi app optional after initial mandatory directive
- When
- 2024
- Where
- India
- Why
- To address concerns about surveillance, privacy, and user autonomy
- App Name
- Sanchar Saathi
- Launch Year
- 2023
- Purpose
- Cyber fraud prevention and device tracing
- Initial Mandate
- Mandatory pre-installation on smartphones
- Current Status
- Optional installation
- Phones Blocked
- 42 lakh
- Lost Phones Traced
- 26 lakh
- App Downloads
- 10 million