The compulsory pre-installation order has raised concerns over user choice, data access transparency and whether the app should remain removable. While the DoT states that Sanchar Saathi collects no personal data unless a user initiates an action, digital rights groups have requested clearer audits, disclosure of data flows and defined retention rules. 

Sanchar Saathi combines multiple telecom-security tools, including CEIR for blocking lost or stolen phones, IMEI validation to detect cloned or tampered devices, TAFCOP to identify unauthorized mobile connections, and a reporting module for scam or spam calls and messages. These features reduce SIM-linked fraud, identity misuse and handset trafficking across networks.