India’s Proposed Phone Security Rules Trigger Concern from Global…

Sarah J · 2026-01-12T17:21:04.000Z

India has unveiled a draft set of proposed security regulations for smartphones that has drawn significant opposition from major technology companies, as the government seeks to bolster cybersecurity protections in the world’s second-largest mobile market. The proposal, part of an 83-point regulatory package under discussion, aims to enhance data security and device safety but has raised concerns among global manufacturers over operational feasibility and intellectual property implications. Under the draft framework, smartphone makers including Apple, Samsung, Google and Xiaomi would be required to provide proprietary source code for review by government-designated labs to detect vulnerabilities. Companies argue that sharing confidential source code could compromise corporate secrecy, violate global privacy policies and has no direct parallel in other major markets. In addition to source code requirements, the proposed rules include several measures designed to strengthen overall device security: limiting background access to cameras, microphones and location services, mandating periodic malware scanning, storing security audit logs for up to 12 months, and requiring notifications to the government before major software updates or security patches are released. Manufacturers and industry representatives, including the Manufacturers’ Association for Information Technology (MAIT), have raised objections, describing several elements of the proposal as unprecedented and impractical. They argue that mandatory malware scanning could drain device batteries and affect performance, while government review of updates could delay security patches needed to address active threats. The draft also proposes that all non-essential pre-installed apps must be removable and that devices should warn users if the phone has been rooted or “jailbroken.” Companies have stated that many system components cannot be safely removed and that reliable detection of device modifications remains technically challenging without impacting user experience. The Indian government has emphasised that consultations are ongoing and that industry concerns will be considered before finalising any legal requirements. Officials noted that the broader goal is to construct a robust regulatory framework for mobile security in India, where nearly 750 million smartphones are in use and rising online fraud and data breaches underscore the need for stronger protections. Industry groups have requested more clarity and collaboration in shaping the final rules, stressing the importance of balancing cybersecurity goals with innovation, privacy and global industry standards. The outcome of these discussions could influence how future mobile technologies are deployed and secured in India, with implications for manufacturers, developers and consumers alike. #India #MobileSecurity #Smartphones #TechPolicy #Cybersecurity #Innovation #Regulation #Apple #Samsung #Google #Xiaomi #DataPrivacy #Startups #DigitalIndia #Telecom #MobileIndustry #GovernmentPolicy #MarketExpansion #Infrastructure #Technology #StartupEuropeIndiaNetwork #AI #Science #SecurityPolicy

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India’s Proposed Phone Security Rules Trigger Concern from Global… | SEINET