Verification / Buying a SIM? DoT Tightens Verification with Biometrics
Key Points
DoT introduces biometric verification for SIM cards, requiring fingerprints, facial or iris scans. Limits on SIM ownership remain, aiming to curb fraud and ensure secure mobile connections linked to genuine identities.
Bhubaneswar, Aug 22: Mobile users planning to buy a new SIM card will now face stricter verification procedures. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced new rules requiring biometric checks in addition to the standard Know Your Customer (KYC) documentation.
Under the new system, fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scans may be used to verify identity. This step aims to curb the misuse of SIM cards obtained under fake names or fraudulent documents.
The rules extend beyond new SIM purchases. Biometric verification will also be required when updating user details, closing a SIM, or re-verifying identity. Officials say the move will help prevent SIM cards being used under false identities, which often facilitate fraud and cybercrime.
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The government emphasized that mobile numbers today are linked not only to calls and internet services but also to banking, UPI transactions, OTPs, and other digital platforms. Ensuring that each number is tied to a genuine identity is therefore critical for national security and consumer protection.
Limit on Number of SIMs
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✨The new guidelines also reaffirm limits on the number of mobile connections an individual can hold. Across most of India, a person may have up to nine SIMs registered in their name.
However, in Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, and the North East service areas, the limit is six. If a person exceeds these limits, the additional connections may be deactivated.
Objective of the Rules
The primary goal of the new framework is to make mobile connections more secure and reduce fraud. By combining KYC with biometric verification, authorities hope to eliminate fake identities and prevent misuse of SIM cards. This measure is expected to strengthen trust in digital services and protect users from scams.
As the new rules roll out, mobile users should be prepared
for biometric checks whenever they purchase or update SIM cards.
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