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technology20h ago
India orders phone makers to preload devices with state-owned cyber safety app
- India’s telecoms ministry ordered 90-day preinstallation of the Sanchar Saathi app on new devices, with no uninstall option.
- Manufacturers must also push the app via software updates for devices already in the supply chain.
- The Sanchar Saathi app is promoted to combat cyber threats by tracking lost or stolen smartphones across networks.
- Privacy advocates raise concerns that the policy erodes user consent and options.
- Apple, Samsung, Vivo, Oppo and Xiaomi are among the affected manufacturers.
- The policy is part of a broader effort to curb cybercrime and prevent SIM/IMEI-related fraud.
- The Sanchar Saathi app reportedly contributed to recovering thousands of devices since its January launch.
- The government says the app helps prevent cyber threats and assist tracking of devices.
- Developers and users face ongoing debates about balancing security and privacy.
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