Illegal phone tapping to invite three years in jail, Rs 2 crore fine or both

Interception of phone communications illegally, unauthorised data transfer or attempting to gain access to a telecommunication network will soon be punishable by imprisonment for a period of up to three years or a fine of up to Rs 2 crore.

According to the new Telecommunications Bill, 2023, introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday, if anyone works in any way against the interest of national security, friendly relations with foreign states and uses telecommunication equipment illegally shall be punished with imprisonment for a term that may extend to three years or with a fine which may extend up to Rs 2 crore, or with both.

The central government may, if it deems fit, also suspend or terminate the telecommunication service of such person.