TRAI brings new regulation, 10 digit numbers can no longer be used for spam calls
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In a much needed relief from spam calls, TRAI has brought in a new regulation via which 10 digit numbers can no longer be used for spam calls. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has been regularly taking efforts to make the lives of users better and hassle free.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has taken significant measures to curb the menace of spam calls and prevent the misuse of SMS headers and content templates by unscrupulous elements in forwarding malicious/fraudulent messages. These measures are aimed at safeguarding consumer interests and ensuring a clean and secure messaging ecosystem.
TRAI said that any entity found to be making promotional voice calls in violation of regulations would face strict consequences. This includes disconnection of all telecom resources, block listing for up to two years, and a ban on new resource allocation during the block listing period. In response to these directions, over 800 entities/individuals have been block listed, and more than 18 lakh SIP DID/ Mobile Numbers/ Telecom resources have been disconnected which is a significant step towards cleansing the systems of commercial calls.
In compliance with TRAI’s directions access providers have implemented mandatory allow listing of URLs, APKs, or OTT links in messages with effect from 1 October 2024. This way, only safe and approved links can get through the SMS, protecting consumers from harmful or fake websites, apps, or other online threats.
Further, telemarketing calls starting with the 140xx numbering series have been migrated to the Distributed Ledger Technology (Blockchain) platform for strict monitoring and control.
Access Providers have implemented technical solutions to ensure traceability of entities (Senders/Principal Entities) involved in sending a message to recipients. This new system ensures that each person who handles the message, from the sender to the final delivery, is tracked. With effect from 1st December 2024, any traffic (messages) where the chain of Telemarketers is not defined or does not match with pre-defined chain shall be rejected.
