India Mandates Preloading of State Cybersecurity App on Smartphones | AI News Digest
India's telecom ministry has announced a new regulation requiring that all newly sold smartphones in the country include the Sanchar Saathi app, a government-developed cybersecurity application aimed at tackling cyber threats for its 1.2 billion telecom users. The app, which users cannot delete, has sparked backlash from privacy advocates and major technology firms such as Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi. Officials defend the initiative, stating it is essential for resolving issues like duplicate IMEI numbers that contribute to scams and the misuse of telecom services. With over 5 million downloads to date, the Sanchar Saathi app has played a key role in blocking millions of stolen devices and fraudulent connections. Nonetheless, critics argue that this mandate infringes on user consent and raises concerns about excessive government oversight of personal technology.
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