In many retail outlets like shopping malls and marts, when customers buy goods and pay bills, the employees at the counters ask the customers for their mobile numbers and register them. Since many shops follow a method where the bill can be generated only by providing this mobile number.
Allegations were made that through this system, mobile numbers were obtained from customers to send offers, special features, bonus points etc. of their stores. Also, many people are reluctant to give their number. Because, there are also complaints of cyber scams taking place with other people’s mobile numbers.
Due to this, the Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs has issued an action order to the traders that they should not force the customers to ask for their mobile number while paying for goods in retail shops.