New Delhi .The Telecom Department is changing the rules regarding mobile SIM card connection. Under the new provisions coming into effect from August 24, the number of SIM cards already issued in the name of customers taking a new mobile connection will be verified. If a person already has mobile connections equal to the prescribed limit in his name, he will not be issued a new SIM card.

The objective of this system is to increase surveillance on the number of mobile connections and to control the excessive issuance of SIM cards based on the identity of a single person. While applying for a new connection, the telecom companies have to ensure that mobile connections in excess of the prescribed limit are not already active in the name of the concerned customer.

The limit of having a maximum of nine mobile connections in the name of an individual is applicable in most states and union territories of the country. This means that if a customer already has nine SIM cards issued in his name, he will not be able to take the tenth mobile connection in his name. Before giving a new connection, the information about the existing mobile numbers associated with his name will be checked.

However, this limit is different in Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and North-Eastern states. A maximum of six mobile connections are allowed in the name of a person in these areas. Therefore, the limit for customers living in these states and territories will be six SIM cards.

The new rule may especially affect those people who have multiple mobile numbers in their name for a long time. Many times customers take multiple connections for different needs, but later stop using some numbers. Despite this, those numbers can remain linked to their name in the records. In such a situation, it may be important to check the prescribed limit while getting a new SIM in future.

Customers can check the details of mobile connections issued in their name through Government Sanchar Sadhi and TAFCOP system. With this, it can be found out how many mobile numbers are issued on their identity and which connections are in use by them.

If a mobile number appears in the list that the customer does not recognize or does not use, a request may be made to report it and disconnect the connection. This process can also help identify unauthorized connections.

Under the new rules, the responsibility of mobile companies will also increase. A customer must confirm that his/her existing connection number is within the prescribed limit before issuing a new SIM. In case the limit is reached, new application will not be accepted.

It is important for customers to check the details of all mobile connections issued in their name before getting a new SIM. Especially people who have many old numbers, they should ensure that no unknown or unnecessary connections are activated in their name. With this, you will be able to avoid problems while getting a new connection and have better control over the mobile connections linked to your name.