Security agencies alert on illegal use of satellite phones in Indian waters 

Security agencies warn of illegal satellite phone use in Indian waters, threatening national security and maritime safety.

Security agencies have issued an alert on the illegal use of satellite communication devices in Indian waters, terming it not only a violation of existing laws but also a potential threat to national security.

Acting on these inputs, the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has proposed stricter penal provisions to prevent the unauthorised usage of the satellite communication channels. 

Expressing concern, the DGS said security agencies continued to report instances of vessels and crew members carrying undeclared portable satellite communication devices, including satellite phones and satellite-enabled messaging equipment. Such incidents, it noted, were in clear violation of regulatory norms.

Security alerts also indicated the use of Zoleo satellite devices connected to smartphones compatible with Iridium satellite communication systems for messaging in areas without cellular network coverage. “Such actions constitute serious violations of existing orders and pose potential national security threats,” the DGS said. 

The DGS now seeks to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements governing the use, declaration, authorisation and reporting of satellite communication equipment by ships and seafarers operating in Indian waters, in the interest of maritime safety and national security.

In an earlier order dated July 12, 2023, the DGS had permitted the use of Iridium-based satellite communication equipment in Indian waters exclusively for Distress and Safety Communications under the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), subject to specified conditions. However, the use of Thuraya satellite equipment continued to remain banned in Indian waters.