SIM Card Scam Alert 2026: How Many SIM Cards Are Allowed Per ID?

Kokila Chokkanathan
In today’s digital age, mobile phones and internet services have made life easier, but they have also increased the risk of cybercrime and online fraud. One area of concern is the misuse of SIM cards. Many scams involve multiple SIMs registered under fake or stolen identities, putting law-abiding citizens at risk if proper rules are not followed.

Legal Limit of SIM Cards Per Person

  • According to Indian telecom regulations, an individual can have a maximum of 9 prepaid SIM cards per ID (Aadhaar or other valid ID).
  • For postpaid SIMs, the limit is generally 1 per operator, but rules may vary by service provider.
  • Exceeding the legal limit or using fake documents to obtain multiple SIMs is considered illegal.
Why Exceeding the Limit Is Risky

  • Cybercrime and Fraud: Criminals often use multiple SIMs to commit financial fraud, phishing, and spamming.
  • Legal Consequences: Having more SIM cards than allowed can lead to police investigation. In serious cases, it may result in fines or imprisonment under Indian Telegraph Act and IT Act.
  • Account Verification Issues: Banks, government services, and apps now verify numbers via Aadhaar or KYC, so multiple SIMs can complicate your identity verification.
How to Protect Yourself

Check Your Active SIMs – You can visit https://www.jio.com/numbercheck, airtel.in, or vi.co.in to see how many SIMs are registered under your name.

Block Unauthorized SIMs – If you find SIMs that you didn’t register, contact the telecom operator immediately.

Keep Your ID Safe – Never share Aadhaar or other ID details with unknown sources.

Report Fraud – Inform local police or cybercrime cell if someone is misusing your identity to get SIM cards.

Steps to Verify Your SIM Cards

  • Step 1: Visit your telecom provider’s website or app.
  • Step 2: Log in using your registered mobile number.
  • Step 3: Check the list of SIMs linked to your ID.
  • Step 4: If you see extra SIMs, report them for blocking and investigation.
Key Takeaways

  • Maximum 9 prepaid SIMs per ID; postpaid rules vary.
  • Using fake IDs to get extra SIMs is illegal and punishable.
  • Regularly verify your active SIMs to prevent misuse.
  • Stay alert to SIM-related frauds, as criminals often exploit multiple SIM registrations.
Conclusion

With the rise in digital transactions and online services, SIM card fraud has become a serious issue. Following the legal limits and safety practices protects your identity, avoids legal trouble, and ensures you don’t fall victim to cybercrime.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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