All mobile brands joined Sanchar Saathi talks except Apple

The government has consulted almost every major smartphone maker on implementing the Sanchar Saathi fraud-prevention app, but Apple did not attend the official working-group discussions, even as cybercrime losses continue to surge nationwide.

The Union government has engaged with nearly all mobile phone manufacturers to discuss the wider implementation of the Sanchar Saathi app, with Apple emerging as the only major brand absent from the working-group deliberations. Minister of State for Communications Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani confirmed on Tuesday (December 2) that the consultations were held to address industry queries and encourage broader adoption of the app, which is aimed at combating online fraud and helping citizens trace lost or stolen devices.

Pemmasani said the app functions like any standard mobile application that users can install or delete freely. Its purpose, he stressed, is to streamline the reporting of spam calls, fraudulent messages and cybercrime incidents, while enabling the government to act swiftly on verified information.

Apple reviewing requirements; Industry seeks middle path

According to the minister, all original equipment manufacturers were invited to the working group, and all except Apple participated. Industry sources said Apple is evaluating the directive and may seek an alternative solution, as it may not be able to comply with the current mandate in its existing form.

Apple had earlier resisted supporting certain features of TRAI’s DND app before eventually allowing limited integration after prolonged discussions.

Pemmasani clarified that Sanchar Saathi collects only the phone number or SMS details reported by users. “No other data is accessed or stored,” he assured, addressing concerns around privacy.

Cyber fraud spike drives government push

The minister highlighted a steep rise in cybercrime, with over 50 lakh people affected last year and financial losses nearing ₹23,000 crore. Complaints about unauthorised mobile connections issued in users’ names also prompted sharper intervention.

Sanchar Saathi, available in English, Hindi and multiple regional languages, has already been downloaded by 1.4 crore users, while its website has recorded 21 crore visits since launch.