Sanchar Saathi is a citizen portal and app of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). It was launched in May 2023 to help mobile users protect themselves from theft, identity misuse and fraud. Here is how to use its main tools.
Block a lost or stolen phone (CEIR)
The Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) lets you block a lost or stolen phone using its IMEI number, so it cannot be used on any network in India.
- File a police complaint, online or at a police station, and keep the copy.
- Get a duplicate SIM for your lost number from your telecom operator.
- On Sanchar Saathi, choose Block Your Lost or Stolen Mobile.
- Enter the mobile number, IMEI numbers, device brand, model, place and date of loss, police complaint number and your ID details.
- Verify with OTP on the duplicate SIM and submit.
You get a request ID. If the phone is later used with any SIM, the system can help police trace it. When you find the phone, you can unblock it on the same portal. You can find the IMEI on the phone box or bill, or by dialling *#06# before the phone is lost.
Know your mobile connections
Under Know Mobile Connections in Your Name, enter your number and OTP to see all mobile numbers registered with your ID. If you see a number you did not take, report it as Not My Number. You can also mark numbers you no longer need.
Chakshu: report fraud communication
Chakshu lets you report suspected fraud calls, SMS or WhatsApp messages, such as fake KYC, impersonation of officials, or fake job offers. Mention the number, time and a screenshot if possible. For money already lost, call 1930 and file a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in.
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Other tools
- Know Your Mobile (KYM): check whether a handset’s IMEI is genuine before buying a second hand phone.
- Report international calls showing an Indian number, which are often used in fraud.
- Know your wireline internet service provider.
Sanchar Saathi app
DoT launched a mobile app version in 2025, with the same features and easier reporting.
Bottom line
Sanchar Saathi helps you block a lost phone, catch SIMs taken in your name and report fraud calls. Save your IMEI numbers today so you are ready if your phone is ever lost.
Source / स्रोत: Sanchar Saathi portal, Department of Telecommunications
