DoT Orders Telecom Firms to Block SIMs Beyond 9-Connection Limit

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed telecom operators to stop issuing new mobile connections to subscribers who already have nine SIM cards registered in their name.

As per an official circular, telecom companies must implement technical and organizational measures from August 24 to identify customers trying to obtain additional SIM cards beyond the permitted limit. Operators have been instructed to use the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP), which contains subscriber information uploaded by telecom service providers, including details of customers who have already reached the nine-connection limit.

From August 23, a representative image of subscribers who have reached the prescribed limit will also be available on the DIP. The DoT said the move will help operators identify such customers and prevent them from obtaining additional mobile connections.