Centre proposes smartphone makers to give source code in security overhaul

Overview The Indian government is proposing a set of stringent security measures for smartphones sold in India, including a controversial requirement for manufacturers to share their source code with the government. This proposal, encompassing 83 security standards , has sparked significant opposition from major tech companies like Apple and Samsung , who argue that it lacks global precedent and risks exposing sensitive proprietary information. The government's initiative is driven by concerns over increasing online fraud and data breaches in India's rapidly growing smartphone market. Key Developments Government Proposal: Requires smartphone makers to share source code and make software changes. Industry Concerns: Tech companies argue the measures lack global precedent and risk revealing proprietary details. Security Focus: Aims to boost user data security amid rising online fraud and data breaches. Market Context: India is the world's second-largest smartphone market with nearly 750 million phones. Stakeholders: Key players include Apple , Samsung , Google , Xiaomi , and MAIT . Upcoming Meeting: IT Ministry and tech executives are scheduled to meet on January 13, 2026 , for further discussions. Government Rationale The government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, is prioritizing the security of user data in response to the escalating threat of online fraud and data breaches. IT Secretary S. Krishnan has stated that legitimate industry concerns will be addressed with an open mind. The proposed measures are intended to ensure a safer digital environment for Indian smartphone users. Industry Concerns and Counterarguments Tech companies are wary of the proposed security standards, citing the lack of international precedent and the potential compromise of proprietary information. They argue that sharing source code could expose vulnerabilities and undermine their competitive advantage. The industry also questions the practicality of some requirements, such as mandatory malware scanning and government approval for software updates. Source Code Access: Companies argue that source code review and analysis are not feasible due to secrecy and privacy concerns. Software Changes: Requirements to allow uninstallation of pre-installed apps and block background camera/microphone usage are also points of contention. Global Standards: Industry representatives emphasize that no other country mandates such stringent security requirements. Malware Scanning: Concerns raised about battery drain due to regular malware scanning. Software Updates: Seeking government approval for software updates is deemed impractical due to the need for prompt releases. Log Storage: Concerns about insufficient device storage for 12 months of log data. Market Share and Key Players The Indian smartphone market is dominated by a few key players. According to Counterpoint Research estimates, Xiaomi holds 19% of the market share, followed by Samsung with 15% , and Apple with 5% . These companies, along with others, are directly affected by the proposed security regulations. UPSC Relevance This issue is relevant to GS3 (Science and Technology, Cyber Security, Economy) and GS2 (Government Policies) . It highlights the ongoing debate between national security, data privacy, and technological innovation. Understanding the perspectives of both the government and the tech industry is crucial for analyzing the potential impact of these regulations on India's digital economy. Important Facts The Centre proposes requiring smartphone makers to share source code with the government. The proposal includes 83 security standards for smartphones. Tech companies are concerned about revealing proprietary details and the lack of global precedent. The plan aims to boost the security of user data amid increasing online fraud. IT Ministry and tech executives are due to meet on January 13, 2026 , for further discussions. The government previously revoked an order mandating a state-run cyber safety app. Xiaomi holds 19% , Samsung 15% , and Apple 5% of India's smartphone market share. The proposals require companies to allow pre-installed apps to be uninstalled.

Centre proposes smartphone makers to give source code in security overhaul

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Centre proposes smartphone makers to give source code in security overhaul

Centre proposes smartphone makers to give source code in security overhaul

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