The central government on Thursday announced new norms for SIM verification. As per the new rules, bulk connections have been stopped and verification has also been made mandatory for sellers while selling SIM cards.
Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnab said that the government has canceled around 52 lakh mobile connections made using fake methods. 67,000 SIM sellers have also been blacklisted for providing mobile connections illegally using fake methods.
The new rules include:
• Every SIM card seller has to do their own police and biometric verification.
• Telecom companies have to take responsibility for verification of SIM card sellers.
• While selling the SIM card, it has been directed to verify the information by scanning the QR code on the printed copy of the Aadhaar card.
• Even if you want to get a new SIM for an existing number, you have to follow the same rules.
• Bulk connections have been closed.
• Launching Business Connection.
• However, a person can get a maximum of 9 SIM cards after verifying their identity.
• A mobile number can be transferred to a new subscriber after 90 days of disconnection.
• KYC process has to be completed in case of SIM replacement.
• SMS service will be off for 24 hours on the new SIM.
The new rules are said to be a move by the Center aimed at curbing cyber crime.