Sanchar Saathi App: Use, Features, and How It Works?

The Sanchar Saathi app, developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), has become a widely discussed digital safety tool in India. It was launched in January 2025 as a citizen-centric telecom security platform designed to help users block stolen phones, verify device authenticity, track SIM connections, and report fraudulent communication.

Earlier on November 28, 2025, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) issued a directive stating that all smartphone makers (global and domestic), including big brands, must pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on new phones sold in India. However, the government has now clarified that the app is not mandatory and that smartphone users are free to install or uninstall the app as they prefer.

This blog explores what the Sanchar Saathi app is, how it works, and how users can benefit from its features.

What is the Sanchar Saathi App?

Sanchar Saathi is a telecom security and user-protection platform developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). Initially launched as a web portal and later expanded into a mobile app, it enables users to monitor SIM usage, secure their devices, and report telecom-related threats.

The platform brings multiple security features into a single application, making telecom safety more accessible to every user.

Key Features of the Sanchar Saathi App

•  Report Fraudulent Communication: Users can report suspicious calls, SMS, or WhatsApp messages, including phishing, fake KYC alerts, and impersonation attempts.
• Block Lost or Stolen Phones via IMEI: The app allows users to block the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number of a lost or stolen smartphone so it cannot be used across any mobile network in India.
• Check SIM Connections Linked to Your ID: Users can view all mobile numbers registered using their identity documents and request the removal of unauthorised connections.
• Verify Smartphone Authenticity: Before buying a new or used device, users can verify the IMEI to ensure it is genuine, helping prevent the purchase of tampered phones.
• Report Spoofed International Calls: The app helps identify and report international calls that appear with Indian caller IDs.
• Register Complaints Related to Spam or Unwanted Calls: Users can report spam or unwanted calls, as well as violations of telecom guidelines.

Why is the Sanchar Saathi App Important?

Sanchar Saathi plays a significant role in strengthening mobile security and protecting telecom users in India. The app was introduced to address the following concerns:

• Increase in smartphone theft and illegal IMEI tampering.
• Growing cases of cyber fraud and impersonation.
• Unauthorised SIM issuance using stolen identities.
• Misuse of telecom infrastructure for financial scams.

With rising cases of smartphone theft, SIM misuse, and digital fraud, the platform provides essential tools that empower users to safeguard their devices and mobile identity. Given India’s massive and growing base of mobile users, these problems have become widespread. 

With features like IMEI-based blocking, fraud reporting, SIM-registration tracking, etc., the app serves as a mass-scale defence system against phone theft, fake devices/SIMs and scams. Essentially, the government frames it as a step toward safer digital lives for millions of users.

How to Download the Sanchar Saathi app?

Sanchar Saathi is available as a mobile app and a web portal (https://www.sancharsaathi.gov.in/). Users can download the Sanchar Saathi app by searching for 'Sanchar Saathi' on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store, then installing it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Sanchar Saathi app used for?

Sanchar Saathi is a telecom-security app by the Department of Telecommunications that helps users:

• Check SIMs linked to their ID.
• Block stolen or lost phones.
• Verify IMEI authenticity.
• Report scam calls and messages.
• Report spoofed international calls.

2. Is Sanchar Saathi mandatory on all smartphones?

No. The government has clarified that the Sanchar Saathi app is not mandatory. Users are free to install or remove it from their devices as needed.

3. Does the Sanchar Saathi app collect my personal data?

The app collects only the necessary information required to:

• Verify mobile connections
• Process IMEI block/unblock requests
• Handle fraud reports

The Department of Telecommunications states that it follows government data-handling guidelines. Users should review the app’s permissions and privacy policy for more details.

4. Can I use Sanchar Saathi without downloading the app?

Yes. All the mentioned features are also available on the official portal: https://sancharsaathi.gov.in 

5. Is the Sanchar Saathi app free?

Yes. The app and all its services are entirely free for users.

6. Can I uninstall the Sanchar Saathi app?

Yes, you can uninstall the Sanchar Saathi app from earlier. The Government of India has recently clarified that it is not mandatory for all mobile manufacturers to pre-install the app, and users are free to install or uninstall it as they prefer.

7. Can I verify a second-hand phone using the Sanchar Saathi app?

Yes. Use the “Verify Device / IMEI Verification” feature in the Sanchar Saathi app to verify a second-hand phone and check whether the IMEI is valid, genuine, or blacklisted.

8. Does Sanchar Saathi work for dual-SIM phones?

Yes. You can view and manage all SIM cards registered under your identity, including those used in dual-SIM devices.