With the onset of Digital India, cybercrime is at an all-time high, and digital security is a very important matter at hand that needs to be looked at. To enhance security and improve communication services, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has presented new changes and policies for the government.

What Is TRAI?

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is a regulatory body established under the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act in 1997. The primary function of this body is to oversee the working of the telecommunications sector and potent the interest of the users.

TRAI is responsible for designing policies, measures, and guidelines for service providers of various related services such as mobile phones, internet, etc. It is one of the major bodies established to ensure fair practices in the telecommunications industry by both, the service providers and users.

Read more: Role of TRAI in India

What Are TRAI’s New Policies?

The new TRAI guidelines and policies are listed below:

• One of these policies is the mandatory use of government-issued identification cards such as an Aadhar card for SIM check verification.

• The SIM card linked to aadhar that a citizen purchases will be under the name that is present on their Aadhar.

• TRAI is also concerned with caller identification. The new policy will have the caller’s name as per their Aadhar card and will display on the receiver’s phone even if they are not in the receiver’s contact list.

• For companies, TRAI will register the same name registered under their GST form. The same name will be displayed on the receiver's phone.

What Is The Need Of TRAI’s New Policies?

The new policies of TRAI sim check were crucial to have been introduced because of numerous reasons:

• Verification and caller identification, clarity, transparency, and consistency will enhance user experiences through measures such as SIM cards linked to aadhar. This will also minimise confusion about the identity of the caller.

• These new policies will go hand-in-hand with the vision of the government which is to promote digital authentication and E-Governance initiatives.

• The TRAI SIM check policy is a significant step forward in the evolution of India as a digital conglomerate.

• Prioritising the security, transparency, and user experience of the consumers plays such a pivotal role.

• It helps in shaping a safer and more resilient digital environment for consumers. It is a way to thrive and elevate digitalisation to different levels altogether.

How To Check SIM Cards Linked With Aadhaar?

To check the Aadhar card SIM check, follow the below-mentioned simple steps:

• Visit the official website of TAFCOP (Telecom Analytics for Fraud Management and Consumer Protection).

• Enter your mobile number on the homepage.

• Fill in the OTP received on your mobile number.

• After verification, you’ll be able to see a list of SIM cards linked to aadhar cards.

• One can report unauthorised numbers if they see any.

How To Link an Aadhaar Card With A Mobile Number?

People can opt for SIM cards linked to aadhar cards by following the steps mentioned below:

1. Visit the website of your telecom provider.

2. Enter your mobile number and Aadhar number.

3. You’ll receive an OTP.

4. Fill in the OTP and confirm the linking.

5. You can also link the mobile number with the aadhar card by calling on the toll-free number of your SIM service provider.

   Read more: Aadhaar Card Updates–How Often Can You Change Your Details

Benefits Of Linking Mobile Numbers With Aadhaar Cards

There are numerous benefits of TRAI SIM check are listed below in brief:

• Enhanced Security: By connecting your phone number to Aadhaar card, you can protect yourself from identity theft and enjoy enhanced security.

• Access to e-Government Services: It makes it easier to get government services such as welfare programs, Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), and subsidies.

• Simplified KYC: The connection makes it possible to expedite Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, which are essential for telecom and banking services.

• Fraud Prevention: Confirming that users are real, helps to cut down on SIM card fraud and misuse.

• Simpler Account Recovery: Makes using the Aadhaar OTP for account verification and recovery easier.

KYC Rules For SIM Cards

The Know Your Customer (KYC) rules for SIM cards are managed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). The key rules are:

• Aadhar card for SIM check: SIM cards linked to aadhar cards are mandated for all users with biometric verification and OTP verification.

• Verification: While buying a new SIM card, the buyer is required to be physically present with the necessary documents like identity proof and address proof.

• Re-verification: Existing users or owners of SIMs are required to complete re-verification by Aadhar card SIM check.

• SIM Replacement: If users want to switch or replace SIM cards, they need to complete the KYC again within 24 hours.

• Bulk purchases: The government has decided to stop providing bulk SIM cards to users. Business entities that require bulk SIM cards for their employees are required to appoint an authorised signatory for the same. However, a person can buy up to 9 SIM cards.

Conclusion

The New TRAI Policies have been introduced to enhance the safety and security of the citizens across the country. The TRAI sim check has given the government 6 months to install and put forward these new changes to the general public. The aim is to decrease the growing fraudulent activities and misuse of mobile connections.

For any complaint visit the official Sanchar Saathi website and register now, save yourself and your loved ones. To get latest updates about more such regulations and policies, visit Jaagruk Bharat. Also join us and share your opinions on our community page.