SIM Card Rules: Using More Than 9 SIM Cards in One Name? Face a Fine of Rs 2 Lakh and Jail Time!

SIM Card Rules: In today’s digital age, many people use two smartphones or a dual SIM phone for personal and official work. Having multiple SIM cards has become quite common, thanks to the affordable prepaid plans available in India. But are you aware of the legal limit on how many SIM cards an individual can have in their name? There is a specific law regarding this, and violating it can lead to hefty fines and even imprisonment.

According to telecom regulations, there is a set limit on the maximum number of SIM cards an individual can register in their name. To monitor this regulation strictly, the IT Ministry has launched a special portal called ‘Sanchar Saathi’. Through this portal, anyone can easily check how many SIMs are active in their name.

What is the Maximum Number of SIM Cards Allowed Per Person?

As per the Telecommunications Act, 2023, an Indian citizen can register a maximum of nine (9) SIM cards in their name. However, there are some regional variations to this rule. For Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, and the northeastern states, this limit is reduced to six (6) SIM cards. This regulation has been put in place primarily to enhance national security and prevent fraud.

If an individual is found to have more SIM cards registered in their name than the prescribed limit, they will face penalties. It is crucial for every citizen to be aware of these rules.

What are the Penalties for Violating the Rules?

Using more SIM cards than the specified limit is a punishable offense according to government regulations.

• First Violation: For the first offense, the individual can face a fine of up to ₹50,000.
• Second Violation: If the same person violates the rule a second time, the fine can be increased to up to ₹2 lakh.

Furthermore, obtaining a SIM card using someone else’s identity is considered an even more serious crime. In such cases, the accused can face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to ₹50 lakh, or both. Therefore, one should refrain from allowing others to use their identity documents to purchase a SIM card.

How to Check Active SIMs in Your Name?

You can easily find out the number of SIM cards registered in your name and apply to deactivate unnecessary numbers through the ‘Sanchar Saathi’ portal.

1. First, visit the Sanchar Saathi portal.
2. Enter your mobile number and the captcha, then log in using the OTP you receive.
3. After entering the OTP, you will see a list of all active mobile numbers linked to your ID.
4. If you find a number on the list that does not belong to you, you can report it by selecting the “Not My Number” option.
5. If you wish to deactivate an old or unused number, select the “Not Required” option next to it.

By following these simple steps, you can keep track of the SIM cards registered in your name and protect yourself from potential fraud and penalties.