Faking identity while registering for over-the-top (OTT) platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and Telegram may result in a year in prison or a fine of up to INR 50,000, according to reports.
The Department of Telecommunications has included new provisions in the draught Indian Telecommunication Bill, 2022, to protect users from online fraud and other illegal activities, according to ET. “This will aid in the prevention of cyber fraud involving telecom services.” As a result, provisions relating to identity have been included in the Bill at relevant places,” the ministry was quoted as saying in the draught bill’s explanatory note. Telecom users will be required to declare their identity under sub-section 7 of section 4 of the draught bill. Furthermore, misinterpretation of identity has been designated as a punishable offence.
