India makes cybersecurity app optional after public privacy outcry

Government Allows Users to Delete Sanchar Saathi App

India's government has partially reversed a new requirement for a cybersecurity app on all new mobile phones sold in the country following public outcry. Officials announced this week that users will have the option to delete the Sanchar Saathi app after it has been installed on their devices.

The Ministry of Communications initially mandated on November 28 that phone manufacturers and importers install the Sanchar Saathi app on devices before sale, aiming to reduce online fraud. The directive specified that companies must ensure the app's accessibility and that its functionalities could not be disabled or restricted.

This requirement did not sit well with many citizens. By Tuesday, Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia addressed the concerns. In a statement posted on X, he clarified, "If you don’t want Sanchar Saathi, you can delete it. It is optional."

Opposition politicians were quick to criticize the initial mandate. Mallikarjun Kharge, president of the Congress party, wrote on X that the requirement would lead to "snooping, surveilling, scanning and peeping," and likened it to "dictatorship."

Understanding the Sanchar Saathi App's Functionality

Government officials provided details to Bloomberg regarding the app's functions. Users can utilize Sanchar Saathi to combat fraud, block stolen phones, and verify mobile connections. The app requires access to call logs and text messages, and requests permissions for camera access and other features. Officials emphasized that the app does not access microphones, location data, Bluetooth, or the operating system.

This development is significant given India's large population and the influence of major technology companies like Apple Inc. and Alphabet Inc.'s Google. These companies typically resist government interference in their mobile platforms, citing the need for control to ensure security and protect user privacy.

Potential Challenges from Tech Giants

Reuters reported that Apple may officially challenge the order. Representatives from Apple did not respond to requests for comment, and Google also remained silent on the matter.

Apple has experienced significant growth in India, with its revenue reaching nearly $9 billion in the last fiscal year, according to Cryptopolitan. The company has been expanding its physical presence in the country to meet increasing demand.

The government points to the app's effectiveness as proof of its utility. Since its launch, the app has recorded 14 million downloads, and approximately 2.6 million lost and stolen phones have been traced through its system.

India has been intensifying its efforts to combat cyber fraud through various initiatives, including the training of thousands of cyber police officers in recent years, as previously reported by Cryptopolitan.

Minister Scindia reiterated his defense of the app on Tuesday, stating that it is designed for user protection rather than surveillance. "Sanchar Saathi is voluntary, transparent, and designed solely to protect India’s mobile consumers while advancing the nation’s cybersecurity," Scindia said. "Users have complete freedom to activate, or delete the app at any time, ensuring safety without compromising privacy."