The government on Dec 3 withdrew the order mandating pre-installation of cyber security app Sanchar Saathi on smartphones.

The government has withdrawn its earlier mandate requiring smartphone makers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app, stating that although the app helps protect citizens from cyber threats, its growing voluntary adoption makes compulsory installation unnecessary.

New Delhi: The Government on Wednesday clarified that the Sanchar Saathi mobile application is a secure, citizen-centric tool designed solely to protect users from cyber fraud and bad actors, even as it withdrew its earlier mandate requiring smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the app. Officials stated that the app aims to enhance “Jan Bhagidari” by enabling […]

The government said the mandate was originally intended to ensure that less-aware citizens also had access to cybersecurity tools

New Delhi: The Ministry of Communications on Thursday removed the mandatory pre-installation of Sanchar Saathi app on mobile handsets imported or

This decision reverses a previous order requiring manufacturers to include the app, which faced opposition accusations of government snooping despite assurances from the Communications Minister regarding privacy.

Dec. 3 (UPI) -- The Indian government on Wednesday reversed an order that required all new mobile phones to have a tracking app on them, after backlash from the public over privacy concerns.

Get latest articles and stories on India at LatestLY. The decision came after widespread criticism, with opponents arguing that mandatory pre-installation could enable unchecked state surveillance and infringe on consumer choice. The government maintained that the app is secure and meant to protect citizens from cyber threats, but ultimately decided to prioritise user consent. India News | Centre Withdraws Mandatory Pre-installation of Sanchar Saathi App After Opposition Pushback.