Mobile connections should always be secure in this digital world. New SIM cards can be registered in your name without your permission, leading to fraud and financial loss. Aadhaar is a very essential part of life right now and every mobile connection is linked with a registered no and your Aadhaar will be used for any verification or collection process. Alternatively, here is a hands-on guide to reporting unauthorized SIM connections through TAFCOP.
What is TAFCOP?
TAFCOP is an initiative launched by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to help Phone users check how many SIMs have been issued against their Aadhaar number. It is ensured that only authorized connections stay active, fraudulent or excessive connections can be reported, and such connections be deactivated.
Why You Need to Check for Unauthorized SIMs?
Threats Of Unauthorized Mobile Numbers Registered Under Your Name.
- Identity Theft Just like a Social Security number, criminals can use these numbers for fraudulent purposes.
- Financial Scams: Many financial frauds involve these unauthorized numbers.
- Privacy Concerns: Your details can be misused.
- Limited SIM: According to the DoT rules, nine SIMs can be taken on different telecom networks per person. More SIMs in your name will prevent you from getting a new connection, even if u/yushgira and other details are incorrect.
How to Find Linked Mobile Numbers on TAFCOP?
Initially, you need to verify how many SIMs are registered under your Aadhaar in order to report any unauthorized number. Follow these steps:
Visit the TAFCOP Portal:
Step 1: Open the web browser. visit https://tafcop.dgtelecom.gov.in.
Enter Your Mobile Number:
Step 3: On the given homepage, enter your active mobile number linked with Aadhaar and click on ‘Request OTP’
Verify with OTP:
An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number. To continue, enter the OTP into the specified field.
Check Registered SIMs:
Once you have verified, the portal will show you a list of all mobile numbers registered with your Aadhaar.
What to do when your SIM is being used without your permission?
To report the unauthorized mobile numbers linked to your Aadhaar, follow these steps:
Choose the Number(s) that are not Valid:
Given the options below, highlight the number(s) that are not yours
Choose the ‘Report’ Option:
Select ‘Report’ or ‘Not My Number’ next to the unauthorized link.
Please enter a reason for reporting.
You may be asked to choose a reason from a dropdown, like ‘Not in use,’ ‘Not my number’ or ‘Fraudulent registration.’
Submit the Report:
Choose the right one and request for the same to be reviewed.
Receive Confirmation:
A message may be sent to your registered mobile number confirming the action taken.
What Happens After Reporting?
- The telecom service provider concerned would look into the numbers reported.
- If the number is shown to not be authorized, the provider will disable it.
- If you need more verification, you may be contacted.
- You might receive periodic updates about the status of your request via SMS.
More Ways to Secure Your Mobile Connection
- Check Your SIM Registration Regularly: You can sometimes verify which mobile number is linked to your number on the TAFCOP portal.
- On Aadhaar, opt for strong security measures: use biometric locking and refrain from sharing your Aadhaar information.
- However, it’s important to immediately report any lost SIMs to your service provider to avoid misuse.
- Do not share OTPs or Personal Information [Avoid Sharing OTPs Or Personal Data]: Be mindful when sharing OTPs and personal information with unfamiliar channels.
Conclusion
You can find out if a SIM is registered to you or not by checking the details here. TAFCOP Portal is an efficient way to monitor and report your unauthorized connections with your Aadhaar. With the above steps, you mitigate the risks of identity theft, fraudulent activities, and loss of control over your mobile connections. Be on your guard and equip your telecom security today