The Indian government’s newly introduced SIM card regulations, which were announced in August 2023, is in effect from December 1, 2023. These rules aim to enhance SIM card purchasing security and combat fraudulent activities.
Key Changes Introduced by the New SIM Card Rules:
Registration Process:
PoS (Point of Sale) agents must sign an agreement with the telecom service provider to prevent illegal activities.
PoS agents found engaging in illegal activities face a ₹10 lakh penalty and a three-year termination from the telco’s network.
Sellers have 12 months from December 1 to comply with the new registration requirements. This move aims to identify, blacklist, and remove rogue sellers from the telcos’ systems.
KYC (Know Your Customer) Rules:
Demographic details are mandatory for purchasing new SIM cards or applying for a new SIM on an existing number.
Details will be captured by scanning the QR code on the Aadhar card of the person taking the SIM card.
The mobile number will be assigned to a new customer only after 90 days of disconnection by the previous user.
Subscribers must undergo the entire KYC process for SIM replacement. Outgoing and incoming SMS facilities will be barred for 24 hours after SIM replacement.
Bulk SIM Buying:
Bulk sale of SIM cards is prohibited to prevent digital fraud.
Connections or SIMs for businesses, corporates, or events are allowed, but KYC norms apply to each individual SIM card owner.
Customers can still purchase up to 9 SIM cards on one ID card.
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