By Editorial Desk, 63SATS
AI-Powered Action, New Policies, and Cybercrime Helpline Drive Digital Security.
India has launched a decisive assault on cybercrime by blocking 80 lakh fake SIM cards and 6.78 lakh mobile numbers linked to illegal activities.
This massive crackdown, powered by advanced AI tools and new policies, marks a turning point in securing the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure from digital fraud.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs, led this initiative to detect fraudulent SIM cards registered using fake documents.
Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia highlighted the effort’s scale and success, stating that these measures are “transformational in ensuring safe telecom services for citizens.”
How Fake SIMs Were Busted
The surge in cyber frauds had been fuelled by SIM cards obtained using fake credentials.
To combat this, the DoT employed AI-based detection tools to sift through millions of mobile connections, identifying 78.33 lakh fake numbers. These SIMs were promptly deactivated, preventing their misuse in scams and illegal operations.
The government didn’t stop there. An additional 6.78 lakh mobile numbers directly linked to cybercrime were also blocked. These numbers were found at the heart of fraudulent operations targeting unsuspecting users across India.
New Policies to Secure Telecom Networks
To further reinforce digital security, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) introduced new rules that telecom operators are now required to follow:
Message Traceability Rule (Effective December 11, 2024): Enables tracking the origin of fake messages to block their spread.
Blocking Telemarketing Calls and Messages (From October 1, 2024): Telecom operators have started identifying and eliminating spam calls and messages at the network level.
Additionally, the government has cracked down on fraudulent international WhatsApp numbers misused for scams, financial fraud, and phishing activities. The coordinated approach between DoT and TRAI underscores the government’s commitment to digital safety.
Cybercrime Helpline 1930: A Lifeline for Citizens
At the heart of India’s anti-cybercrime strategy is the national cybercrime helpline 1930, which has emerged as a critical tool for victims of digital fraud. In a remarkable achievement, the helpline has saved ₹3,500 crores for over 10 lakh citizens by swiftly addressing complaints and blocking transactions.
Minister Scindia lauded this success, noting, “The cybercrime helpline exemplifies how effective intervention can protect citizens and foster confidence in the digital ecosystem.”
Spam Calls Out, Trust In
The impact of these combined measures will be felt by millions of users nationwide. Spam calls, phishing attempts, and fake messages are expected to decline significantly, restoring user trust in telecom networks. By leveraging AI-driven tools and imposing stringent regulations, the government is laying the foundation for a safer and more secure digital India.
With cybercrime escalating worldwide, India’s actions send a powerful message about protecting digital users and infrastructure.
The government’s proactive stance—from blocking fake SIM cards to addressing international scams—shows that combating cyber threats requires vigilance, innovation, and collaboration.
For users, this crackdown isn’t just a headline—it’s a step toward a fraud-free telecom experience where safety is prioritized.
