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Free SMS API for Arduino R4, NodeMCU, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and other Embedded SoC Boards (India Only)

At CircuitDigest, we've been creating and sharing Internet of Things (IoT) projects with our community for a long time. A crucial part of these projects is enabling communication between IoT devices and end users, and when it comes to simple notifications, nothing beats the practicality of sending an SMS.

However, sending an SMS from devices like Arduino, ESP32, or other embedded systems typically requires a GSM module with a working SIM card. While this method is valid, it has its drawbacks:
1.    Outdated 2G Networks: Popular modules like SIM800 are becoming obsolete since major telecom providers have phased out 2G services (at least in India).
2.    Cost and Complexity: Using 3G or 4G GSM modules increases costs, power consumption, and project complexity.
3.    Scalability: Sending SMS from a single device is straightforward, but scaling this for multiple devices can become cumbersome.

An ideal solution would be to use an SMS API, which is why we created the CircuitDigest Cloud SMS API. After extensive research and community feedback, we found that existing SMS services were often too complex or not tailored for hobbyists and engineers working on early prototypes. This is where our SMS API comes in—easy to use, free, and designed specifically for makers in India.

What is CircuitDigest Cloud?

CircuitDigest Cloud is an initiative aimed at empowering engineers, makers, and hobbyists with essential tools for rapid prototyping. In addition to the SMS API, we also offer other useful APIs, such as QR Code Scanning and License Plate Recognition, for those interested in expanding their projects.

How to Send SMS Using CircuitDigest Cloud API?

Using the SMS API from CircuitDigest you can easily send SMS from your IoT Development boards like Arduino R4, ESP32, ESP8266, Raspberry Pi etc. It is as simple as creating an account on circuitdigest.cloud, registering your mobile numbers and using any of the pre-defined SMS templates to send a message of your choice. 

Currently this service is available only for the users in India, and each user can send a maximum of 100 SMS/month for free which we believe will be enough for most practical applications. In order to prevent spamming we have made sure that users can send SMS only numbers that are already linked to their account using a OTP verification. 

Disclaimer: At the time of writing this article our cloud platform is functional but yet to have some cosmetic updates. We intend to build it with time and add more functionalities

Process of Signing into Circuit Digest Cloud Account

Step 1: Visit the Circuit Digest Cloud Home Page. Click the "Login" button located at the top right corner to be redirected to the login page.

Step 2: If you already have an account, log in using your existing credentials. If not, go to the registration page to create an account by filling in the required details. Once completed, click "Register Now" to sign up.

Step 3: After registering, use your email ID and password to log in on the login page.

Process of Generating API Key

Step 4: Once logged in, click on "My Account" at the top right corner.

Step 5: You will be directed to a page where you can generate your API Key. Enter the captcha text in the provided box, then click the "Submit" button.

Step 6: If the captcha is correct, you'll see a table displaying your API Key along with its expiration date and usage count. Currently, there is a limit of 100 calls per month. Once you reach this limit, you can generate another key, giving you an additional 100 calls. This usage limit is in place to prevent abuse of our free service.

Step 7: In order to send an SMS to a phone number you should first link it with your account. To do that enter your 10-digit phone number in the “Link Phone Number” text box, solve the captcha, and click on get OTP

Step 8: A 4-digit OTP will be delivered to your phone number, which you can enter and verify OTP. If done correctly you will see the new phone number appearing on your profile page under the Linked Phone Numbers section. 

Now you can send an SMS to this phone number using our API. In order to send an SMS you have select one of the SMS formats from below. 

SMS Templates for CircuitDigest SMS API:

Template IDTemplate TypeMessage
101Device Status AlertYour {#var#} is currently at {#var#}.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
102Temperature AlertThe temperature in {#var#} has reached {#var#}°C. Please take necessary action.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
103Motion DetectedMotion detected by {#var#} in the {#var#}. Investigate immediately.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
104Battery Low AlertThe battery level of {#var#} is critically low at {#var#}%. Recharge immediately.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
105Periodic ReminderYour {#var#} is currently at {#var#}.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
106Service ReminderIt’s time to service your {#var#}. Last service was on {#var#}.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
107Error NotificationError {#var#} has been detected in {#var#}. Please troubleshoot immediately.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
108Door/Window StatusThe {#var#} is currently {#var#}. Please ensure safety.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
109System RebootThe system {#var#} has been rebooted at {#var#}. Verify functionality.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
110Location TrackingThe device {#var#} is currently located at {#var#}.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
111Task CompletionThe task {#var#} has been successfully completed at {#var#}.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
112Connection Lost AlertThe connection with {#var#} was lost at {#var#}. Please check the network or device.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
113Maintenance NeededThe {#var#} requires maintenance. Detected issue: {#var#}.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
114Overload AlertThe {#var#} is experiencing an overload. Current load: {#var#}. Please reduce usage.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.
115Unauthorized AccessUnauthorized access detected in {#var#} at {#var#}. Verify immediately.
--
Powered by CircuitDigest for the Engineers and Makers of India. Visit www.circuitdigest.com.

As you can see the above table shows the most commonly used 15 SMS templates, with a template ID. Each template has two variables marked at {#var#} whoes value can be passed from the development board in real time. In order to call this SMS API the user has to send the following four values

1.    API Key: Can be obtained from circuitdigest cloud profile page 
2.    SMS Template ID: Can be selected form the table above
3.    Variable 1: You can pass up to 30 alphanumeric characters, excluding special characters
4.    Variable 2: You can pass up to 30 alphanumeric characters, excluding special characters

 

API Endpoint

Base URL: https://www.circuitdigest.cloud/send_sms 
HTTP Method: POST
Query Parameter ID: The Template ID of the SMS (e.g., 101)
Headers Authorization: API key for secure access.
Content Type: application/json

Request Body:

The API expects a JSON payload with the following fields:

Field

Type

Description

mobiles

String

The recipient's mobile number(s), prefixed with 91

var1

String

Placeholder for the first dynamic value in the template.

var2

String

Placeholder for the second dynamic value in the template.

Testing CircuitDigest SMS API using Python:

We have provided a simple Python code to send SMS using the CircuitDigest SMS API below. You can use this code to test if your API key is working as expected. Make sure to modify the below code with your actual API key, mobile number and variables of your choice before running the code

API Response

The API returns a JSON object with the request status. Below is a sample response:

Successful Response:

{
 "status": "success",
 "message": "SMS sent successfully",
 "details": {
   "mobile": "919876543210",
   "template_id": "12345",
   "delivery_status": "pending"
 }
}

Error Response:

{
 "status": "error",
 "message": "Invalid API key",
 "code": 401
}

Notes and Best Practices

1.    Mobile Number Format: Always prefix numbers with the country code (91 for India).
2.    Template Validation: Ensure the provided Template ID matches the server's configuration.
3.    Rate Limiting: Monitor usage limits and regenerate keys as needed.
4.    Error Handling: Implement robust error handling for API responses.

Common Errors

Error Code

Message

Cause

401Invalid API keyAPI key is missing or incorrect.
400Bad RequestMissing required fields in the request body.
403Rate Limit ExceededMaximum request limit reached for the API key.

More Code Examples

The API has been tested with the NodeMCU but can be used with any development boards capable of connecting to internet. We will provide links to all the tutorials using this API, complete with code and circuit diagrams, as usual.

Create and Share:

We hope this will be useful for quickly testing and deploying your ideas. If you build something using the API, please share it with us, and we will mention your work on this page. Happy building!

 

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India Started its Semiconductor Journey with SCL in 1984, even before TSMC was set up – What went Wrong?

In 1984, India laid the foundation for its semiconductor dream by establishing Semiconductor Complex Limited (SCL) in Chandigarh. This bold move came three years before Taiwan’s TSMC, now a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing, was even founded. With strong engineering talent and a growing electronics market, India seemed poised to become a major player in the semiconductor industry.

However, while TSMC surged ahead to dominate the global market, India’s plans stumbled. Challenges like outdated technology, insufficient funding, poor infrastructure and a devastating fire at SCL in 1989 ruined progress. Meanwhile, Taiwan prioritized strategic investments and industry-friendly policies, allowing TSMC to grow into a giant that powers everything from smartphones to advanced AI systems.

As India works to revive its semiconductor ambitions with new policies and partnerships, the contrast between its journey and TSMC’s success offers important lessons. What held India back and can the country overcome its past mistakes to finally carve a place in the global semiconductor ecosystem?

Tracing the Roots: India’s Semiconductor History

1980s: Beginning of the Journey

India's semiconductor journey began in the 1980s with the establishment of Semiconductor Complex Limited (SCL) in Chandigarh. The goal was to make India self-reliant in semiconductor production and lay the foundation for the country’s electronics industry. However, the initiative faced numerous challenges, including inadequate funding, outdated technology and poor infrastructure, all of which hindered its growth. 

Despite some progress, such as moving from a 5-micron to a 0.8-micron process technology, the project suffered a major setback when a devastating fire in 1989 destroyed much of the infrastructure, stalling India's semiconductor ambitions.

1990s: Shift from Manufacturing to Design

While manufacturing faced difficulties, India's IT sector began to flourish in the 1990s, setting the stage for a shift towards semiconductor design rather than production. Leveraging its strong software expertise, companies like Wipro, Infosys and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) invested in R&D and contributed to the global semiconductor industry.

This period saw India becoming a hub for semiconductor design and embedded systems, although the country remained heavily reliant on imports for semiconductor manufacturing from countries like Taiwan, South Korea and China.

India Semiconductor Journey Timeline

 

 

2000s: Rising Design Capabilities and Missed Opportunities

As the new era started, India continued to grow in semiconductor design and embedded systems, but manufacturing remained stagnant. The Indian government did not make significant investments in semiconductor fabrication plants, unlike Taiwan and China, which were establishing state-of-the-art facilities.

India’s policies also struggled to align with global trends, preventing the country from securing a competitive position in semiconductor manufacturing. Although India’s IT and design capabilities expanded, its inability to establish a domestic manufacturing facility kept it behind global semiconductor leaders.

2010s and Beyond: Slow Progress towards Manufacturing

By the 2010s, India’s semiconductor market developed, but challenges in building semiconductor fabs continued. The Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) sector grew significantly, from $65 billion in 2011 to $94 billion by 2015, but the manufacturing infrastructure was still weak. 

Factors such as a lack of technological infrastructure, insufficient R&D investment and high capital costs for semiconductor fabrication limited progress. Moreover, competition from countries with lower labor costs, like China and Vietnam, further hindered India’s growth.

Despite these challenges, India’s design capabilities continued to improve. The government eventually recognized the strategic importance of semiconductor manufacturing and began implementing financial incentives and policy reforms aimed at boosting domestic production. 

While India has faced setbacks, recent efforts signal a renewed focus on building a stronger semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem, which could enable the country to take a more prominent role in the global semiconductor supply chain.
India's semiconductor journey, though marked by missed opportunities and slow progress, now appears poised for a new phase, with increasing investments and policies aimed at closing the gap in semiconductor manufacturing and establishing India as a key player in the global semiconductor market.

Missed Opportunities: Understanding the Failures

India's semiconductor journey has been shaped not only by its progress but also by several missed opportunities that have hindered its growth in the industry. One of the most significant missed opportunities occurred in the 1970s when Fairchild Semiconductor, a leading American tech company, considered establishing a manufacturing facility in India. At the time, India seemed like an attractive market with its large population and growing demand for electronics. 

However, governmental delays, slow decision-making and restrictive industrial policies led Fairchild to choose Malaysia instead, which offered a more favourable environment for tech development. This missed opportunity marked a key moment when India lost out on early semiconductor expertise and investment.

In addition to Fairchild, Texas Instruments also considered collaboration with India in the 1980s but chose other countries due to the restrictive regulatory environment. Similarly, India's lack of strong intellectual property protection and outdated policies discouraged many multinational companies from setting up R&D and manufacturing facilities.

Meanwhile, South Korea Taiwan and Malaysia emerged as semiconductor hubs by offering incentives, lower labour costs and more favourable policies. Taiwan's TSMC capitalized on international investments, building a strong domestic semiconductor ecosystem. India, however, lagged behind due to its limited economic policies and lack of support for semiconductor development.

India's focus on self-reliance and the import substitution policy further hindered foreign collaboration, delaying the growth of high-tech sectors like semiconductors. Additionally, the public sector-led development model limited competition and innovation, unlike countries like Taiwan and South Korea, which encouraged private sector growth.

Lessons from the Past: Building a Stronger Foundation

The failures of the past offer valuable insights that are shaping India’s new approach to semiconductors. With the lessons learned from previous setbacks, India is now taking strategic steps to build a more resilient and sustainable semiconductor ecosystem. The country is focusing on four key areas:

Key Areas to Focus

 

 



Focus on Manufacturing

The most significant lesson learned from the past is that semiconductor manufacturing is essential. While India has traditionally been strong in semiconductor design, the country must now shift its focus toward building strong fabrication plants. In recent years, the Indian government has taken extensive steps for the establishment of semiconductor manufacturing units in the country. This shift is key for India to reduce its dependency on semiconductor imports and to compete in the global market.

Investment in Talent Development

India’s strength lies in its vast population of engineers and skilled professionals. The country has a well-established reputation for producing high-quality software engineers and IT professionals. However, the semiconductor industry requires specialized skills in areas such as chip fabrication, lithography and material sciences. To meet this need, India is focusing on creating a skilled workforce capable of working in semiconductor manufacturing and design. Educational institutions and technical institutes are developing personalized programs to train professionals for the semiconductor sector.

Strategic Global Partnerships

To catch up with global leaders in semiconductor manufacturing, India is now focused on establishing strategic partnerships with countries and companies that have advanced semiconductor technologies. Collaborations with global giants such as Intel, TSMC and Samsung are expected to bring valuable technological expertise and investment to India’s semiconductor ecosystem. These collaborations will help India bridge the technological gap, join into global supply chains and accelerate its transition toward becoming a semiconductor manufacturing hub.

Strengthening the Supply Chain

India’s semiconductor supply chain has historically been slow and limited, with a reliance on imports for raw materials, components and advanced manufacturing equipment. In the future, India must focus on building a self-sustaining semiconductor supply chain that can meet domestic demand and serve global markets. This includes setting up fabrication units, establishing strong supply lines for silicon wafers, packaging and testing and ensuring the availability of the necessary infrastructure.

Current Initiatives by Indian Government

In recent years, India has significantly increased its focus on the semiconductor industry, with the government announcing several initiatives to build a comprehensive ecosystem. Some of the key initiatives include:

Companies Investment in India Semiconductor

 

Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Semiconductors

Launched in 2020 April, the PLI scheme aims to provide financial incentives to companies that set up semiconductor manufacturing units in India. Under this scheme, the government has promised to cover a significant portion of the capital costs involved in establishing semiconductor fabs, which will make it more attractive for international players to invest in India. This initiative has already attracted interest from companies like Vedanta, Foxconn, Powerchip Semiconductor, CG Power, Renesas and HCL who are looking to build fabs in the country.

Semicon India Program

Launched in 2021 December, the Semicon India Programme is a strategic initiative designed to create a complete semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem in India. The program is focused on three main areas:

  • Design and Innovation: Encouraging R&D and innovation in semiconductor design.

  • Manufacturing and Infrastructure: Establishing world-class semiconductor manufacturing facilities in India.

  • Talent Development: Creating specialized training programs and institutes to develop a skilled workforce.

This program is expected to lay the base for a self-sustaining semiconductor industry in India.

Collaborations with Global Players

India is actively pursuing partnerships with leading semiconductor manufacturers worldwide. These collaborations will allow India to benefit from advanced technologies and best practices in semiconductor production. For instance, India is working with the United States on semiconductor supply chain strengthening, Taiwan on technology transfer and Japan on research and development.

Incentives for Private Investments

Several large domestic multinationals, including Tata Group and Vedanta, have announced major investments in semiconductor manufacturing in India. The government’s incentives, combined with private sector interest, have encouraged a renewed momentum in the country’s semiconductor ambitions.

Final Words

India’s semiconductor journey, though filled with challenges and missed opportunities, is now entering a crucial phase of transformation. The country is laying the foundation to become a key player in the global semiconductor industry.

The key to India’s success lies in its ability to learn from past mistakes, capitalize on its strengths in design and engineering and develop a complete ecosystem that supports both manufacturing and innovation. If India can execute its vision effectively, it may not only become a key player in the global semiconductor supply chain but also pave the way for future technological advancements that will drive the next generation of innovations.
 

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India’s Dilemma of 6GHz band - Licensing VS De-Licensing

The world of connectivity is in the middle of a crucial decision over a desired piece of the radio spectrum - the 6GHz frequency band. But what exactly is 6GHz and why is it sparking a heated debate in India? This article takes you through the significance of the 6GHz band, what’s at risk for India and why the nation is facing a dilemma over how it should be allocated.

What is 6GHz?

In simple terms, the 6GHz band refers to a range of radio frequencies used to carry data for internet services. Think of it as a wide highway that helps data travel faster and more efficiently. As more people connect to the internet and demand for high-speed services grows, additional bandwidth is essential to handle the load. The 6GHz band is one such solution, offering a broader spectrum than existing bands like the 3.5GHz used by 5G networks.

The importance of the 6GHz band lies in its potential to significantly enhance internet speed, connectivity and reliability. With data traffic on the rise, having a new, wider highway for data is crucial for accommodating future technologies such as Wi-Fi 6E, which runs on the 6GHz band and offers ultra-fast internet speeds.

The Dilemma: To License or De-License?

India is currently facing a dilemma over how to allocate the 6GHz spectrum. Should the band be exclusively licensed for telecom companies or should it be de-licensed, allowing for public use without the need for exclusive rights?

The Case for Licensing

Telecom companies argue that the 6GHz band should be fully licensed, much like previous frequency bands. By doing so, telecom companies would gain exclusive rights to use the spectrum, allowing them to enhance 5G networks and prepare for future 6G technologies. For the Indian government, licensing the 6GHz band could generate significant revenue through spectrum auctions. In 2022, the government earned a massive ₹1.5 lakh crores from auctions and the 6GHz spectrum could potentially bring in even more.

Telecom companies also highlight the growing demand for high-speed internet and the need for more spectrum to handle this demand. With 5G rollout in full swing and 6G on the vision, securing sufficient bandwidth is critical to the nation's digital infrastructure.

The Case for De-Licensing

On the other hand, tech companies like Google, Meta and Amazon, represented by the Broadband India Forum (BIF) are pushing for a portion of the 6GHz band to be de-licensed. Their argument is simple: de-licensing the band would make it more accessible to the public, especially in rural areas and promote digital inclusion. Imagine a school in a remote village gaining access to faster internet due to Wi-Fi using the 6GHz band, this could be a game-changer for education.

Furthermore, estimates from the Dynamic Spectrum Alliance (DSA) suggest that fully de-licensing the 6GHz band could contribute $4 trillion to India’s economy by 2034, strengthening innovation and driving economic growth. De-licensing would also provide more opportunities for companies to innovate and roll out new products such as Wi-Fi-enabled devices, which could boost the adoption of high-speed internet across the country.

The Stakeholders in the Debate

The debate over the 6GHz band is not just between telecom companies and tech giants. Several other groups have risk factor in the decision.

Timeline of Gigahertz (GHz)

  • Chipmakers: The semiconductor industry supports the idea of unlicensed use of the 6GHz band because it opens up new business opportunities such as expanding Wi-Fi networks and integrating Wi-Fi into more devices. For chipmakers, this means more products to develop and sell.

  • Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO): ISRO is another serious player in this debate. The 6GHz band is currently reserved for satellite communication and ISRO has expressed concerns about potential interference with its operations if the band is used for mobile networks. Having a balance between telecom and satellite usage is crucial to avoid disrupting essential services.

The Risks and Rewards of De-Licensing the Band

While de-licensing the 6GHz band might seem like a win for the public, it comes with its own set of challenges. One of the main risks is interference. Since the 6GHz band would be available for anyone to use, too many users could result in network congestion, slowing down internet speeds for everyone. For instance, if many users are trying to access the same frequency, data transfer could become inefficient, leading to frustrating slowdowns.

Additionally, de-licensing could strain mobile networks, especially as 5G adoption grows. Telecom companies may struggle to expand services without enough spectrum and mobile operators could face higher costs to build additional infrastructure, particularly in densely inhabited urban areas. This could lead to increased energy consumption and higher carbon emissions, making the situation even more complex.

On the other side, de-licensing the 6GHz band opens doors to innovation and accessibility. With unrestricted access, tech companies and startups can create more affordable and efficient solutions, particularly benefiting rural and underserved areas. Imagine remote schools, small businesses or healthcare facilities gaining access to high-speed internet through Wi-Fi 6E, driving digital transformation where it’s needed most.

Additionally, broader Wi-Fi adoption could reduce dependence on cellular networks, easing the load on mobile infrastructure. The potential economic gains are significant too, with studies suggesting that de-licensing could contribute trillions to India’s GDP over the next decade by developing a perfect ecosystem for digital services and applications.

The Global Perspective

India is not the only country struggling with how to use the 6GHz band. Different countries have taken different approaches:

  • The United States fully de-licensed the 6GHz band for Wi-Fi use, opening up the band for Wi-Fi 6E devices. This decision has been widely praised for its role in boosting innovation and internet access.

  • Brazil and Saudi Arabia have followed suit, de-licensing the band to promote widespread access to high-speed Wi-Fi.

  • China, however, has taken a different approach by fully licensing the 6GHz band for mobile services, focusing on 5G and 6G development.

India’s decision could have a far-reaching impact, not just on internet access but on the economy as a whole. Studies suggest that if the 6GHz band is used effectively, it could contribute $285 billion to the Asia-Pacific region’s GDP by 2030, with India gaining a significant share of this growth.

Having a Balance: A Mixed Approach?

The most straightforward solution may not be so clear-cut. Given the complexities of the issue, some suggest a mixed approach, part of the 6GHz band could be licensed for telecom companies, while the rest could be de-licensed for public use. This would allow the best of both worlds: enhanced 5G and 6G connectivity for telecoms, while strengthening innovation and affordability in public services, particularly in underserved rural areas.

However, a study by GSMA on the 6GHz band in India suggests that licensing the entire band might be the best route. Without sufficient spectrum, mobile operators could struggle to expand services, leading to slower 5G speeds and higher costs for consumers. Additionally, de-licensing the band could result in significant challenges, including interference, higher energy consumption and increased carbon emissions.

What’s Next for India?

As India considers its options, the government must decide soon, as the global race for 6GHz bandwidth continues. If India delays its decision, it risks falling behind other nations that are already utilizing the potential of the 6GHz band.

For now, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has suggested three options: fully licensing the band, fully de-licensing it or a hybrid approach. Whatever route India chooses, it will need to carefully balance the needs of telecom companies, tech giants and the public, ensuring that the decision benefits the nation as a whole.

Conclusion

The 6GHz frequency band is more than just a piece of radio spectrum, it represents the future of connectivity in India. Whether its helping telecom companies build faster networks or ensuring that Wi-Fi becomes more accessible in rural areas, the risks are high. While there is no easy solution, India’s decision on how to allocate the 6GHz band will shape the country’s digital landscape for years to come.
 

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Telegram Bots Exposing Vehicle Owners Data Rising Privacy Concerns

In an era where digital privacy has become a major concern worldwide, India has seen a rise in incidents where personal data, including sensitive information, is being easily accessed, misused or exposed. This issue has sparked debates about the safety of citizens private details, particularly related to vehicle registrations and driving licenses. The growing reach of mobile apps, social media platforms and Telegram bots has made it easier than ever for anyone to access a vast amount of personal data.

For Indian citizens, the reality of having their private information exposed online is no longer a distant fear. It has become a daily risk. This situation not only threatens personal privacy but also opens the door to more severe issues like identity theft, financial fraud and even social conflicts.

Navigate to This YouTube Video to Know More about This Article 

The Role of Mobile Apps and Telegram Bots in Data Exposure

Mobile applications and Telegram bots are powerful tools for accessing personal data, frequently bypassing privacy safeguards. Telegram bots have been found providing alarming levels of detail about vehicle owners with just a vehicle registration number. These bots can access private information, such as an owner's name, address, engine and chassis numbers and other vehicle-related details. This easy access to private data highlights the vulnerability of citizens to potential misuse.

The Telegram bots are not the only ones tapping into this information. Numerous apps provide similar access, sharing sensitive data that can easily be used for malicious purposes, including financial fraud or targeted social and political actions.

Real-Time Proof of Vulnerability: A Telegram Bot Conversation Exposes Personal Data

A recent conversation with a Telegram bot, reveals the shocking ease with which personal data can be accessed. The bot offered to sell a massive database containing personal vehicle information such as full names, addresses and vehicle details.

Telegram Bot Chat Log

 


In the chat, the bot confirmed that the database was 4.3TB + 1.2TB in size and updated every three months, offered for just 600 USD (approximately ₹50,000). It also offered a live database for new vehicles. The payment method? Cryptocurrency (USDT), indicating the unregulated nature of the transaction. 

 

Telegram Bot Data Exposure

 

The bot shared the user’s full name, father’s name, address and vehicle details, exposing real time privacy risk caused by such apps. This serves as a wake-up call for stronger data protection laws to secure citizens sensitive information.

Government's Data Sharing Policies: A Double-Edged Sword

The role of the Indian government in making this data available has sparked concerns. In February 2021, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) revealed that the government had earned over Rs 100 crore by selling access to the Vahan and Sarathi databases to private entities. These databases contain critical information such as vehicle registration details and driving licenses.
 

According to the Ministry, over 170 private companies, including industry giants like Axis Bank, BMW India, Mercedes Benz and L&T Financial Services, were granted access to the data. These firms were charged between Rs 3 crore per year for access to the data and Rs 5 lakh for educational institutions using it for research. The government sold this information through the Bulk Data Sharing Policy, earning significant revenue until the policy was scrapped. 


However, despite the discontinuation of this policy, a new policy known as "Policy for Providing Access to Information from the National Register" was introduced, allowing third parties continued access to personal data. This access, for a nominal fee of 50INR to 100INR, raises serious questions about data security and privacy. The government has even stated that it will not demand private firms to delete the data they have already received.


The Dark Side of Easy Access: Real-Life Example

A key example of the potential dangers posed by such access to personal information was highlighted during the Delhi communal riots. It was reported that criminals used these mobile apps to identify the religion of vehicle owners, which led to targeted attacks on specific communities. This incident clearly demonstrates how the misuse of personal data can escalate social tensions and create security risks.
 

Vehicle Number Scanning Technique in Delhi Riot


In addition to this, these apps also provide access to sensitive financial details, such as insurance and loan information. When combined with other personal data, this can lead to serious privacy violations and expose individuals to financial fraud or even identity theft.


The Legal Petition and the Need for Stronger Privacy Laws

In September 2024, advocate Gopal Bansal filed a petition in the Delhi High Court, challenging the privacy breaches caused by these apps. The petition raised concerns about how easily sensitive information about vehicle owners is being shared with third parties without proper safety measures. The petition also underscored the risks of such data being misused, highlighting the need for urgent legal intervention.
 

Legal Petition About Privacy Breach by Mobile Apps


Bansal argued that the sharing of personal data through these platforms could lead to major privacy violations, potentially putting citizens at risk of social discrimination, identity theft and even physical harm. He called for stricter enforcement of privacy laws and demanded that the government regulate or restrict the distribution of such personal information.

The Delhi High Court heard the petition, which highlighted the ease of access to vehicle owner data by private companies and selling it, along with its associated risks. The petition underlined the need for stronger regulations to ensure that such sensitive data is not misused.
 

What Needs to Change: Protecting Personal Data in the Digital Age

The increasing ease of access to personal data through mobile apps, Telegram bots and government policies highlights the urgent need for stronger data protection laws in India. While the government has taken steps to address these concerns, such as discontinuing the Bulk Data Sharing Policy, the introduction of new policies that allow continued access to sensitive information has left citizens vulnerable.

To safeguard Indian citizens privacy, strong data protection laws are urgently needed, with clear guidelines on the collection, storage and use of personal data. This law should include strict penalties for entities that misuse or mishandle personal information.

Additionally, there needs to be more transparency in how government data-sharing policies work. The public must be informed about how their information is being used and by whom. Only with greater accountability and stricter enforcement of privacy laws can citizens feel secure in the digital age.

 

 

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