Centre asks smartphone makers to pre-install its app, triggers concerns, Pg1

Key Highlights:

• The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed smartphone companies in India to pre-install the 'Sanchar Saathi' app.
• The app is designed to allow users to report fraudulent calls and messages, and track/block stolen cellphones.
• The DoT mandates that the app be pre-installed on all new devices and made available on existing devices via software updates.
• Smartphone companies have been given three months to comply with the directive.

Detailed Insights:

• The DoT's directive raises concerns among smartphone makers, who may resist the mandatory pre-installation policy.
• The 'Sanchar Saathi' app aims to combat the increasing instances of cybercrime, including financial fraud and identity theft.
• The Supreme Court has also addressed the issue of cybercrimes, directing the CBI to investigate cases of digital arrests.
• The court has asked the RBI to explore the use of AI and machine learning to identify suspicious accounts and freeze illicit proceeds.
• The Supreme Court has directed states to establish cybercrime centers without delay and asked the Department of Telecom to prevent misuse of SIM cards.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Cybercrime: Criminal activities carried out using computers or the internet.
• Digital Arrest: A type of cybercrime where fraudsters threaten victims with fake legal orders.
• Mule Account: An account used to transfer illegally obtained money on behalf of others.