The Indian government has made a significant move in the fight against cybercrime by cracking down on fake SIM cards. Over 80 lakh SIM cards that were issued on false pretenses have been deactivated in an effort to prevent them from being used for illicit activities. This action, facilitated by advanced AI tools, was carried out by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to curb cybercrime in India.
Furthermore, in a broader crackdown on digital fraud, the government also shut down 6.78 lakh mobile numbers that were directly linked to cybercrime activities. This proactive measure demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring secure telecommunications services and safeguarding the interests of the citizens.
The DoT’s use of AI-powered tools to identify and block fake numbers has been instrumental in this campaign against cybercrime. By detecting mobile numbers registered with forged documents, the department was able to identify 78.33 lakh fraudulent mobile numbers, all of which have now been rendered inactive. These developments were shared by the Department through its official channels, underscoring the government’s determination to tackle cybercrime effectively.
Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia praised the collaborative efforts between the DoT and the Ministry of Home Affairs, emphasizing the role of the cybercrime helpline 1930 in saving Rs 3,500 crores for 10 lakh individuals by addressing complaints promptly and efficiently.
In addition to these actions, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has introduced new policies aimed at curbing cybercrime. These policies include the Message Traceability Rule, implemented on December 11, 2024, which enables telecom operators to track the origin and chain of fake messages. Furthermore, starting from October 1, 2024, strict guidelines were enforced to block telemarketing calls and messages at the network level.
Moreover, the government has also taken steps to block fraudulent international WhatsApp numbers that were being exploited for financial fraud and digital scams. These measures are expected to benefit users by reducing fake telemarketing calls, spam messages, and fraudulent activities, creating a safer digital environment for all individuals.
Overall, with the implementation of AI-powered tools, stringent policies, and collaborative efforts between various government agencies, the Indian government is actively working towards combating cybercrime and ensuring the security and integrity of telecommunications services. These proactive steps are aimed at safeguarding the interests and privacy of the citizens and fostering a more secure digital landscape for all.