What Is Sanchar Saathi?
Sanchar Saathi is a citizen site through which any mobile user in India can deal and maintain their mobile connections under a single roof. Once you have logged in using your number and OTP you are able to view all your SIMs issued in your name, block a lost phone, check the IMEI of a handset, and report on suspicious calls or messages.
Two modules are utilized mainly on the platform:
CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register) -list of phone IMEIs to prevent stolen phones.
TAFCOP (Telecom Analytics for Fraud Management and Consumer Protection) analytics system to identify and take action on fraudulent or unjustified mobile connections.
Key Features Of Sanchar Saathi
Block lost or stolen phones (CEIR)
If your phone is lost or stolen, you can submit IMEI, mobile number, and a complaint/reference to block that handset across all Indian networks. Once blocked, the device cannot make calls or use data with any SIM.
Check all SIMs issued in your name (TAFCOP)
The app shows how many mobile connections are currently linked to your ID proofs. You can flag numbers that you never took or no longer need so that operators can disconnect them.
Verify IMEI before buying a phone
Using the “Know Your Mobile” / IMEI check option, you can confirm whether a phone is genuine, already blocked, or reported as stolen before purchasing it, especially in the second‑hand market.
Report fraud calls, SMS and WhatsApp messages (Chakshu)
The app lets you report fake KYC messages, bank OTP scams, investment frauds and other suspicious communication. These reports help authorities block the numbers and take action against fraudsters.
Flag spoofed international calls
If you receive an international call that appears with an Indian mobile number, you can report it as possible caller‑ID spoofing. This helps reduce misuse of telecom networks for cybercrime.
Why Did The Government Launch Sanchar Saathi?
India has seen rising cases of SIM‑based fraud, identity theft and smartphone theft, leading to financial losses for ordinary users. Through CEIR and TAFCOP, authorities have already blocked large numbers of suspicious connections and stolen devices, and the mobile app extends these tools directly to citizens.
In 2025, the government asked smartphone manufacturers to pre‑install the Sanchar Saathi app on new phones so that every buyer can easily access these safety features without needing to search for the app.
How To Download Sanchar Saathi App
Android: Available on the Google Play Store as “Sanchar Saathi”, published by the Department of Telecommunications.
iOS: Available on the Apple App Store for iPhone users in India.
Web portal: Can also be accessed via sancharsaathi.gov.in in any browser.
After installing, register using your mobile number and OTP, then explore the CEIR, TAFCOP, IMEI check and Chakshu sections from the dashboard.
Benefits For Everyday Users
- Protection from SIM misuse: You can quickly find and disconnect unknown SIMs opened with your ID.
- Safety after phone theft: Blocking the device IMEI makes it harder for thieves to reuse or resell your phone.
- Less fraud calls and messages: Reporting scams helps telecom operators and law‑enforcement take coordinated action, improving overall network security.
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