The TAFCOP Portal is a project of the DoT and was introduced in 2023. This portal allows Indian telecom consumers to check the number of SIM cards issued in their name and deactivate unauthorized or unnecessary ones in a flash. This is perhaps one of the best tools in combating fraud and misuse of Aadhaar-linked mobile numbers.
The Portal was integrated with the Sanchar Saathi Portal to centralize and enhance telecom-related services. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the portal, its benefits, and how to use it effectively.
Table of Contents
Why Was the TAFCOP Portal Introduced?
With the widespread usage of Aadhaar for SIM verification, cases of misuse and fraud SIM issuance have increased. Once the Aadhaar details fall in wrong hands, unauthorized SIMs can be issued against the name, which puts one at risk of fraud by financial transactions and identity theft.
The TAFCOP Portal intends to:
- Allow consumers to verify the number of active SIMs registered under his name.
- Enable instant deactivation of unauthorized SIMs.
- Prevent fraud practices from the telecom industry.
What are the Main Features of the TAFCOP Portal?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2023 |
| Managed By | Department of Telecommunications (DoT) |
| Purpose | Prevent fraud and secure telecom services |
| Maximum SIM Limit | 9 for most regions; 6 in J&K and Northeast |
| Integration | Now part of Sanchar Saathi Portal |
| Access | Online through official website |
What Are The Requirements To Be Eligible For The TAFCOP Website?
The portal is available to all Indian telecom subscribers who need to manage and secure mobile connections. If you happen to be a person who only has one SIM or the one who is managing SIMs for both personal or business purposes, this platform will ensure only the numbers you want are actually active under your name.
Advantages of Accessing the TAFCOP Portal
- Find Active SIMs:
- It is easy to determine the number of SIMs that are registered in your name.
- Block Unauthorized SIMs:
- In case you detect an unknown or unwanted SIM, it can be deactivated instantly.
- Avoid Legal and Financial Consequences:
- According to the revised telecom policy, having more than the allowed number of SIMs (9 in most states) can attract severe penalties or fines.
- Improved Security:
- You will get SMS notification in case there are more than 9 active connections registered under your name and, accordingly, take action.
How To Verify The Status Of Active Sim Cards On The TAFCOP Portal?
Here’s how to do it step by step,
- Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
- Go to the Sanchar Saathi Portal & Click on Know Your Mobile Connections
- Step 2: Login
- Enter your mobile number
- Complete the captcha and verify through OTP.
- Step 3: View Active SIMs:
- The portal will display all the mobile numbers that are active and registered in your name.
- Step 4: Take Action:
- Mark numbers as Not My Number to report unauthorized connections.
- Deactivate unused or unnecessary SIMs.
- Step 5: Save Reference Number:
- After reporting, a reference number is generated to track the status of your request.
Steps to Login to the TAFCOP Portal
- Visit the official TAFCOP Login Page.
- Enter your credentials (user ID and password).
- Complete the CAPTCHA and OTP verification.
- Click on “Login” to access your dashboard.
Documents Required to Use TAFCOP Portal
To check or update your SIM status, keep the following handy:
- Aadhaar Card: Your primary ID for verification.
- Active Mobile Number: Linked with your Aadhaar for OTP validation.
Penalties for Exceeding SIM Limit
According to the new telecom policy effective June 26, 2024:
SIM Limit:
- Maximum of 9 SIMs for most regions.
- Maximum of 6 SIMs for Jammu & Kashmir and Northeast states.
Fines for Excess SIMs:
- ₹50,000 for the first offense.
- ₹2,00,000 for repeated violations.
How to Download the TAFCOP App
- Open the Google Play Store.
- Type in Sanchar Saathi Portal App.
- Click on Install to download on your personal mobile and use the portal on your mobile
FAQs
1Q: What is the TAFCOP Portal?
Ans: TAFCOP Portal is a government initiative through which telecom consumers can check and manage the number of SIMs registered under his/her name.
2Q: Who Can Use the TAFCOP Portal?
Ans: All Indian telecom consumers can log on to the portal to secure their connections.
3Q: Is TAFCOP Portal free to use?
Ans: Yes, using and accessing the TAFCOP Portal is completely free.
4Q: What if I exceed the SIM limit?
Ans: You might incur fines between ₹50,000 and ₹2,00,000, even getting into legal trouble.
Conclusion
The TAFCOP Portal is an essential move toward telecommunication security and fraud avoidance. All Indian telecom consumers must take advantage of this wonderful product with its user-friendly interface and strong features to protect identity and mobile connections.