DoT Brings Self-KYC for New Mobile Connections

On Tuesday, the DoT has enabled self-KYC for new mobile connections and for prepaid-postpaid migrations, via an OTP-based process.

Self-KYC for New Mobile Connections

This comes as a part of the DoT reforms, seeking to enable contactless, customer-centric, and secure authentication for mobile users.

Right now, a user has to undergo the KYC process. This generally includes a visit to the PoS, carrying original documents. The customers have to do this for both getting a new SIM and moving between prepaid and postpaid connection options.

Now, with the help of self-KYC, a customer can undertake the same process themselves. This process will happen via an app or portal. What's more, now, the telcos can simply deliver the SIM to the customer; the UIDAI or DigiLocker can then electronically verify the customer's documents. Therefore, the DoT has made KYC a completely paperless and contactless process. The telcos will receive the demographic details, along with a picture, from the UIADI.

Also, the DoT has made it mandatory for telcos to seek customer consent before using their Aadhar details.

"Aadhaar based e-KYC process has been re-introduced for issuing of new mobile connections. Telecom Service Providers will be charged Rs. 1/- per customer authentication by the UIDAI," a PIB release said.

This comes as part of a long list of reforms and restructurings announced by the government to reshape the telecom sector. Among other things, the reforms include a reevaluation of AGR, a 4-year moratorium on statutory payments and so on.