Google and Apple have removed two apps offering international eSIM services from their respective app stores in India, Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The apps have been removed following orders from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under the telecom ministry. DoT has reportedly instructed for removal of these apps to curb cyber fraud.The government has also asked internet service providers, and telecom companies to block the websites of these two apps in India.
What are the two ‘banned’ apps
The banned apps are Airalo and Holafly. These apps have been removed from the Google Play Store for the Indian market. Both apps offer eSIM enabling telecom services in various regions globally.
Both Apple and Google have not made an official statement on the removal of these apps. The companies took action after receiving orders from the DoT on Thursday (January 4).
Why these apps have been banned
Government officials said that fraudsters were found to exploit unauthorised eSIMs with international phone numbers to commit cybercrimes in the country and dupe innocent citizens.
Incidentally, eSIM providers, which offer digital SIM cards for voice calling and internet data packs without requiring a physical SIM card, require a no-objection certificate (NoC) from the DoT.
Other eSIM providers such as Nomad eSIM, aloSIM are, however, still available for users in India to download and use on these app stores.