Taking multiple SIM cards under same name can lead to significant legal and financial troubles.
According to the Telecommunications Act of 2023, strict regulations govern the maximum number of SIM cards an individual can possess, and violating these rules can result in hefty penalties or even imprisonment.
What is the legal limit on SIM cards?
The maximum number of SIM cards an individual can hold depends on the region. Nationwide, the limit is set at nine SIM cards per person. However, in certain areas like Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, and the Northeast Licensed Service Areas (LSAs), the limit is reduced to six. This regulation is part of an effort to curb fraudulent activities and ensure better management of telecom resources.
What is the penalty for violation?
If an individual exceeds the prescribed limit, the first-time offense can attract a fine of up to Rs 50,000. For each subsequent violation, the penalty can escalate to Rs 2 lakh. While there is no specific provision for fines or imprisonment solely for exceeding the SIM card limit beyond disconnection of the excess numbers, the new Telecommunications Act of 2023 has stringent measures for obtaining SIM cards through fraudulent means. Such offenses can lead to imprisonment for up to three years, fines up to Rs 50 lakh, or both.
How can you identify and report misuse?
Telecom operators can easily track the number of SIM cards registered under a single individual’s name. If someone is fraudulently taking SIM cards in your name, it is crucial to identify and report this misuse promptly. The Department of Telecommunications (DOT) provides a portal to help individuals check how many SIM cards are registered under their name. By regularly monitoring this information, you can safeguard yourself from potential fraud.
What are the steps for verification?
For those who already possess more than the allowed number of SIM cards, the DoT has mandated re-verification. Since December 7, 2021, individuals with more than the prescribed limit are flagged for re-verification and given three options: surrender, transfer, or disconnect the excess connections. This measure ensures compliance with the new regulations and helps maintain the integrity of the telecom system.
How to check the number of registered SIM cards under your name?
To facilitate users, the DoT has set up a portal, Sanchar Sathi, where you can check the number of SIM cards registered under your Aadhaar card. Here is a step-by-step guide to using this service:
Visit the Sanchar Sathi webpage: Go to www.sancharsathi.gov.in.
Choose your option: You will be presented with options on the homepage.
Learn about your mobile connections: Select the option to view your mobile connections.
Enter your mobile number: On the new page, enter your ten-digit mobile phone number.
Verify with Captcha: Type in the captcha code.
Enter OTP: You will receive an OTP on your phone, enter it on the website.
View registered SIMs: A new page will display a list of all mobile numbers associated with your Aadhaar card.