Have multiple SIM cards in your name? You could face a fine up to Rs 2 lakh or even jail. Here’s how to check.
How many SIM cards can you have under your name?
If you have taken several SIM cards under your name, you might want to double-check. Having more SIMs than allowed under telecom rules can lead to penalties or even jail time.
How many SIM cards can you have?
As per telecom rules, a person can have up to 9 SIM cards in India.
However, in Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, and the Northeast, the limit is 6 SIM cards.
These limits are based on existing rules that continue under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
What happens if you exceed the limit?
If you have taken more SIM cards than allowed:
- A first-time violation can lead to a fine of up to Rs 50,000.
- Repeated violations can lead to a fine of up to Rs 2 lakh each time.
If the SIM cards were obtained through fraud or fake documents, the punishment is much harsher — up to 3 years in jail, a fine up to Rs 50 lakh, or both.
You’re responsible for SIMs in your name
Even if someone else has taken SIM cards using your ID, you will be held responsible. So, it’s important to check how many SIM cards are registered under your name.
If you find numbers you don’t recognize, report them immediately to get them disconnected.
How to check SIM cards under your name
The government has created a website called Sanchar Saathi for this purpose.
Here’s how to use it:
- Visit https://tafcop.sancharsaathi.gov.in/telecomUser/
- Enter your mobile number and the captcha.
- Enter the OTP sent to your number.
- You’ll see a list of all mobile connections in your name.
You can then select:
- “Not My Number” to report SIMs not taken by you.
- “Not Required” to disconnect unused SIMs.
- “Required” for SIMs you still use.
What if you already had more SIMs before the rule?
If you had more than the allowed number of SIMs before these rules came into effect, you won’t be fined. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has instructed telecom companies to reverify such connections. You can choose to surrender, transfer, or disconnect extra numbers.
