A quiet digital crisis is spreading across India. In the past three months, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has disconnected more than 6.1 million mobile numbers after uncovering large-scale fraudulent registrations. 

Investigators say eastern Uttar Pradesh has become a major centre for this growing network of fake SIM cards. The findings reveal how fake mobile connections are being used to power phishing calls, financial scams, and other forms of cybercrime. Government data shows that around 3.2 million fake SIM cards were traced to western Uttar Pradesh, while 1.6 million originated from the eastern region. These connections, officials say, often serve as digital weapons for organized criminal groups operating across India. 

To counter this threat, the government has launched the Sanchar Saathi portal (sancharsaathi.gov.in) and a companion mobile app. Through this platform, users can check all mobile numbers issued in their name using the “Know My Mobile Connections” feature. 

It allows them to identify unfamiliar numbers and report them for immediate action. Officials believe this initiative will help citizens monitor their telecom identities and reduce the misuse of personal data. By creating transparency between users and service providers, the government hopes to build stronger digital accountability. 

The Issue of Multiple SIM Cards 

During the nationwide verification exercise, authorities discovered that thousands of individuals possessed more than nine SIM cards. 

The DoT has now ordered these connections to be re-verified, warning that any unverified numbers will be blocked. Investigators say such cases often involve forged identity documents used by fraud networks to acquire SIM cards in bulk for illegal use. 

Cybercrime experts caution that fake SIM cards are not a minor irregularity but part of a much larger problem. They form the base of several online frauds, from financial theft to digital impersonation. 

Professor Triveni Singh, a well-known cybercrime expert and former IPS officer, explains, “SIM card fraud is not merely a local problem. It is a threat that cuts across personal financial safety and national security alike. Unless identity verification systems are made foolproof and strictly enforced, the risk will continue to grow.” 

His statement reflects the growing anxiety among cybersecurity professionals who see telecom identity fraud as a weak link that can be exploited by criminal networks and even foreign actors. 

A Call for Vigilance 

For ordinary citizens, the government’s findings serve as a reminder that their digital identities can be misused without their knowledge. 

A SIM card registered under someone’s name could be used to commit crimes, leading to serious legal and financial consequences. 

To prevent such misuse, officials are urging citizens to visit the Sanchar Saathi portal, verify their mobile numbers, and flag any they do not recognize. 

The process involves entering the mobile number, verifying with an OTP, and reviewing all active connections under the user’s name. Suspicious or unused numbers can be reported for deactivation. 

 

The situation in Uttar Pradesh highlights a deeper issue within India’s telecom ecosystem. While the government’s new verification system marks a step forward, experts say its success depends on public awareness and regular participation. 

As digital fraud becomes more sophisticated, even one fake SIM card can be enough to compromise a person’s safety or reputation. Strengthening telecom verification and encouraging citizens to take responsibility for their digital presence are now crucial steps in protecting India’s connected future.