Centre denies report on forcing smartphone makers to share source code

Govt denies claims on source code sharing: The Government of India (GOI) has strongly denied reports suggesting that it plans to compel smartphone manufacturers to share their source code or make sweeping software changes as part of proposed security measures. Calling such claims misleading, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) said the reports were aimed at sensationalising routine consultations on mobile security.

In an official statement, the government said it is continuously taking steps to ensure the safety of users and protect their personal data in the rapidly evolving digital ecosystem. Smartphones are increasingly being used for financial transactions, delivery of public services and storage of sensitive personal information, so mobile security is an important aspect nowadays.

Rising risks amid growing smartphone usage

With over a billion mobile users in the country, smartphones today contain vast amounts of personal and financial data, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals. Any lapse in mobile security can lead to identity theft, financial loss, privacy breach and unauthorised access to sensitive information. These include banking details, photos and login credentials. For businesses too, insecure mobile devices pose significant risks such as data breaches and operational disruptions.

Against this backdrop, MeitY said it is undertaking a structured and ongoing consultation process with stakeholders to develop a robust regulatory framework for mobile security. These discussions are part of the ministry’s regular engagement with the industry on safety and security standards.

The ministry routinely holds consultations on a wide range of issues, including safety compliance, electromagnetic interference and compatibility (EMI/EMC) parameters, Indian language support, interface requirements and security standards. These consultations are followed by detailed discussions with industry players on various aspects of security requirements.

Refuting the report published by an international news organisation, MeitY said the claim that the government intends to force smartphone manufacturers — including global giants such as Apple and Samsung — to share source code is incorrect. The ministry noted that the report did not quote any statements from the companies mentioned or from industry associations representing them. It added that comments from an industry association clarifying the issue were selectively ignored, indicating an attempt to sensationalise the matter.

The government emphasised that it remains fully committed to working collaboratively with the industry. MeitY said it has been engaging with manufacturers and other stakeholders to better understand technical challenges, compliance burdens and international best practices followed by smartphone makers.

Reiterating its position, the ministry said all legitimate concerns raised by the industry would be examined with an open mind, keeping in view the best interests of both the country and the industry.

Q1. Is the Centre planning to force smartphone makers to hand over their source code?

The government has denied reports suggesting that it plans to compel smartphone manufacturers to share their source code or make sweeping software changes as part of proposed security measures.

Q2. Why is the government discussing new mobile security measures?

Smartphones are increasingly being used for financial transactions, delivery of public services and storage of sensitive personal information, so mobile security is an important aspect.

Q3. What has the government said about industry concerns?

MeitY said it has been engaging with manufacturers and other stakeholders to better understand technical challenges, compliance burdens and international best practices followed by smartphone makers.