Govt asks 21 smartphone makers to share security info of units sold in India

The ministry of electronic and IT has asked 21 smartphone makers, majority of which are Chinese, to share detailed procedures and processes adopted by them to ensure security and privacy of users’ data irrespective of the fact whether they are indigenous or imported, reported news agency PTI.

The direction for the reports came following data leaks from mobile phones and pre-installed software and apps in them.

The ministry have given popular smartphone makers including Samsung and Apple, with Chinese brands Oppo, Vivo, Xiaomi, Lenovo and Gionee, and home-brands Micromax time until August 28 to provide the required information.

The government will then verify the shared details and take actions accordingly if any firm found failed to meet security requirements.

“There’s need to ensure safety and security of mobile phones or smartphones…that hold valuable information of users as they use the phone to make digital payment and have personal data,” a ministry official told Economic Times.

“Any device sold in the country should be compliant with global security standards. If companies fail to comply, further action will be taken,” an official told PTI.