Multiple SIM Cards Under Your Name? Rs.2 Lakh Penalty and Imprisonment can be faced by You
It is very convenient to own multiple SIM cards for multiple purposes such as work, personal use and many more. However, strict rules have been set up by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India regarding the number of SIM cards a single person can register under their name. A person can face severe penalties or even jail time if the number of SIM cards exceeds the given limit. Let’s understand about it in depth.
How Many Number of SIM Cards Can Take Under One Name?
Following the guidelines of the Dot, a person can register up to nine SIM cards in their name across all telecom operators. To minimise the misuse of SIM cards, this limit has been set to ensure better tracking of the activities of users.
Consequences of Exceeding the Prescribed Limit
If a person has more than nine SIM cards under his name then he is violating the rules of Dot. This can cost you some serious penalties of up to Rs.2 lakh and even jail time. The aim of this rule is to prevent any fraudulent activities leading to better security.
Accountability for Exceeding the Limit
If you are found to have more than the allowed number of SIM cards registered under your name then you will be responsible e for this act. You will be accountable for any misuse, or illegal activity caused through your SIM cards. It is significant to check and manage SIM cards registered under your name regularly. This will help you avoid these situations.
Checking the Number of SIM Cards Issued Under One Name
The process of checking SIM cards issued under your name is very easy. Telecom Analytics for Fraud Management and Consumer Protection (TAFCOP) is a service introduced by Dot where users can verify the SIM cards registered under their name. The process of Checking is given Below:
1. Visit the TAFCOP website: Go to the official TAFCOP portal.
2. Enter your Mobile Number: Input your active mobile number. Click on ‘Request OTP.’
3. Verify with OTP: Enter OTP sent to your mobile number. Log in.
4. Check SIM cards registered under One name: The Portal will show all SIM cards that are registered under your name. Across various telecom operators.
By regularly checking this list you can ensure no unauthorized SIM cards are issued under your name. Thereby protecting yourself from potential legal issues.
What About Those Who Already Have More Than Nine SIM Cards?
For individuals who registered more than nine SIM cards before new regulations came into effect, DoT provides a grace period. Surrender excess SIM cards. You should immediately visit the nearest customer service centre of your telecom operator. Deactivate extra SIM cards. Failure to comply within a specified period can result in penalties and legal action.
To avoid legal issues, keeping in check the number of SIM cards registered under your name is important. By staying informed about regulations. TAFCOP service can be used to monitor your registered SIM cards. You can ensure compliance and protect yourself from potential fraud. Misuse. Always keep track of your SIM card usage. Take timely action to deactivate unnecessary or unauthorized cards.
