In today’s digital age, our mobile number has become a crucial part of our identity. Everything from banking to social media and online shopping relies on it. Unfortunately, cases of online fraud and fake SIM cards are also increasing rapidly. Sometimes, someone else activates a SIM card in your name using a copy of your identity card or a fake Aadhaar card, without you even realizing it. If this SIM is later used for illegal activities, the real identity holder could be in trouble. Therefore, it is extremely important to know if a fake SIM is being used in your name.
Identifying Fake SIM Cards
To help you avoid this serious problem, the Government of India has created a dedicated website called TAFCOP (Telecom Analytics for Fraud Management and Consumer Protection). Using this powerful portal, you can find out in just one minute how many and which SIM cards are in use in your name.
You need to know how many SIM cards are active on your ID. If someone activates a SIM using your documents and uses it for illegal or fraudulent purposes, you could be held legally responsible. This could unknowingly lead to a major scam. Furthermore, having multiple SIM cards activated without your knowledge increases the risk to your data and privacy. A maximum of nine SIM cards can be activated per ID.
Find out how many SIM cards are active in your name in 1 minute
To obtain this important information, follow these simple steps:
First, open TAFCOP’s official website, tafcop.dgtelecom.gov.in, in your mobile or laptop browser.
Enter your mobile number, which is linked to your Aadhaar, in the box that appears on the homepage.
Enter the captcha code below correctly and click ‘Validate Captcha’.
You will receive an OTP (one-time password) on your mobile. Enter it and log in.
After logging in, you will see a complete list of all mobile numbers linked to your ID.
What if a number doesn’t belong to you
If you see a number on the list that you don’t recognize or have never used, you should take immediate action:
- Select the “Not My Number” option next to that number.
- Next, click the ‘Report’ button.
- After submitting your complaint, you will receive a ticket ID or reference number.
Your complaint will be thoroughly investigated, and if necessary, the fake SIM will be deactivated or removed from your ID. This process is crucial to securing your financial and legal future.