Andrew Bonwick
Vice President of Product Development at Relm Insurance
Madhav Sheth
CEO of Ai+ Smartphone
Stephen Rose
CEO Render Networks


The Department of Telecommunication (DoT) has taken action against the misuse of mobile connections in Bihar and Jharkhand by deactivating over 17,000 SIM cards. These connections were found to exceed the permissible limit of nine mobile connections per subscriber, according to a report by PTI. Through an analysis utilizing artificial intelligence (AI)-based facial recognition technology, the DoT aims to ensure compliance with regulations and enhance security in the telecom sector.
Also Read: DoT Deactivates Mobile Numbers in Bihar and Jharkhand Due to SIM Card Fraud: Report
AI Analysis Reveals SIM Card Violations
In a recent analysis conducted by the DoT, the use of AI-based facial recognition technology helped identify mobile connections that violated the permissible limit of nine numbers per subscriber. The analysis revealed that a total of 21,800 mobile connections were issued in violation of this limit in Bihar and Jharkhand, according to the report.
Also Read: Phones Should Support Cell Broadcasting and Disaster Alerts: Govt
Disconnecting Excessive Mobile Connections
Following the analysis, approximately 17,000 of these excessive mobile connections have already been deactivated. This action was taken to enforce compliance with the prescribed limit and to maintain the integrity of the telecom sector. The DoT is currently conducting further analysis to identify any remaining connections that surpass the permissible limit, quoted the report citing a senior official of the Special Director General Telecom, DoT (Licensed Service Areas LSA – Bihar).
Existing Guidelines on Mobile Connection Limits
The DoT has established guidelines that allow individual subscribers to acquire a maximum of nine mobile connections from telecom service providers across most parts of the country. However, in regions such as Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, and other northeastern states, the limit is capped at six connections per subscriber.