The center is working on a new set of rules to strengthen security on smartphones used across the country. The proposed changes are meant to protect users from online fraud, hacking, and misuse of personal data, as India now has nearly 750 million smartphone users.
According to reports, the government has shared a draft list of 83 security standards with major smartphone makers such as Apple, Samsung, Google and Xiaomi. These proposals are still under discussion and are part of consultations with the industry.
One of the most debated ideas in the draft is a proposal that may require smartphone makers to share their source code for security checks. Source code is the basic programming that runs phone operating systems and apps. The idea is that government-approved labs in India could examine the code to find security weaknesses before phones or updates are released.
The draft rules also include several other user-focused measures. These include giving users the option to delete pre-installed apps, stopping apps from secretly using the camera or microphone in the background, and requiring phones to carry out automatic malware scans. Another proposal suggests keeping system security logs on devices for at least one year to help track cyber threats.
In addition, companies may be asked to inform the government before releasing major software updates. Officials believe this could help authorities respond quickly to potential security risks.
However, global tech companies and industry groups have raised strong objections. They say sharing source code could expose trade secrets and harm innovation. They also warn that some rules could slow down urgent software updates or affect phone performance and battery life.
In response to growing debate, the government’s Press Information Bureau (PIB) has clarified that reports claiming companies will be forced to hand over source code are misleading. The government stressed that no final rule has been approved and that discussions are still at an early stage.
