TRAI new SIM rules: TRAI has introduced new guidelines for the activation of SIMs, KYC, and porting of mobile numbers, and many users have already begun seeking to understand how these changes will affect their daily use of their mobiles. These rules now revolve around safety, fraud control, and smooth verification. If you intend to purchase a new SIM, change to a different operator, or manage business numbers, updates about these changes are all-important. Here’s an easy breakdown of what has changed and what you should expect from now on.
New SIM Activation and KYC Rules
Digital KYC has become necessary for new SIMs and SIM swaps. Users have to go through an Aadhaar-based electronic KYC that ensures accurate demographic capture. This would help trim the fraudulent buying of SIMs and keep the records cleaner. The sale of bulk SIMs to one individual is prohibited, and this closes a big loophole that scamsters had been misusing. Every corporate user has to undergo individual KYC verification, even if numbers are purchased for corporate use. Another major policy change is that no disconnected mobile number will be assignable to another user for 90 days to avoid confusion and identity problems related to such recycled numbers.
New Mobile Number Porting Rules
TRAI has now introduced a seven-day waiting period before the user can port a number after swapping a SIM. That stops the miscreants from swapping SIMs and then swiftly porting them out. Another rule is that users have to wait 90 days after activation or the last porting request before they can switch again. The timelines for porting have been shortened, too. The in-circle ports take three working days, while the inter-circle ports take up to five. Corporate customers will need to provide an authorisation letter from an authorised signatory. Requests cannot involve more than 100 numbers being ported from the same donor operator at once to safeguard against misuse.
Eligibility and Conditions for Porting
Postpaid users have to first clear the outstanding dues before making a porting request. In the case of a prepaid user, the unused balance will lapse once the number is ported. Corporate users require an authorisation letter and, in some cases, can apply for simultaneous porting of up to 50 numbers from the same donor operator. In all, contract-bound users have to fulfil their obligations before applying. Such rules help to avoid disputes between users and operators.
Conclusion
Trai’s new guidelines ensure more secure mobile connections with enhanced verification, reduced fraud, and responsible use of SIMs. Users who plan to buy a new connection or port an existing one will have to keep these timelines and conditions in mind to avoid delays or rejections. These changes enhance security while keeping key processes simple for all.