Every time you ask for a phone number at billing, the law is watching.
Every day, your staff asks customers for their phone number at the billing counter. You think it is normal. But under India's new data law, asking for that number without telling the customer why — is a violation. It does not matter if you are a big mall or a small shop. If you collect customer information, the law applies to you.
Say a customer buys shoes at your shop. Your staff asks for their phone number. You use it for billing, WhatsApp offers, and your loyalty points scheme. That is three different uses. The law says you must tell the customer about each use separately. You cannot club it all into one tiny line on the receipt. Same rule applies when a customer raises a complaint or asks for a return. Every step where you collect their information is a notice moment.
Put a small notice at your billing counter explaining why you collect phone numbers.
Check your loyalty form — does it clearly say what customer information you will use?
Check if your business is ready. Takes 3 minutes. Visit saralprivacy.com/assessment
“The cash counter can also be a data collection desk.”
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The Complete DPDPA Compliance Guide
Plain English. Everything your business needs to understand the DPDP Rules 2025 — written for founders, not lawyers. Now in 7 Indian languages.
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