TRAI Crackdown on Spam Callers: Over 2.75 Lakh Mobile Numbers Disconnected, 50 Entities Blacklisted

In a decisive move to combat the growing menace of spam calls, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has implemented stringent measures against unregistered telemarketers. On Tuesday, TRAI announced that over 2.75 lakh mobile numbers and other telecom resources have been disconnected, and more than 50 entities have been blacklisted as part of this crackdown.

The Crackdown on Spam Callers

The action follows a sharp increase in complaints regarding spam calls and messages, with over 7.9 lakh grievances reported against Unregistered Telemarketers (UTMs) in the first half of 2024 alone. In response to this alarming rise, TRAI issued strict directives on August 13, 2024, mandating all telecom service providers to halt promotional voice calls from unregistered telemarketers using SIP, PRI, or other telecom resources.

• Mobile Numbers Disconnected: Over 2.75 lakh SIP DID/mobile numbers/telecom resources have been disconnected to curb spamming.
• Entities Blacklisted: More than 50 entities found misusing telecom resources have been blacklisted.

Impact on the Telecom Sector

TRAI’s crackdown aims to create a cleaner and more efficient telecom ecosystem by significantly reducing spam calls. The telecom regulator expects these measures to provide substantial relief to consumers, who have been plagued by unwanted promotional calls.

In addition to the disconnection and blacklisting, TRAI has also warned that any further misuse of telecom resources by unregistered telemarketers will result in severe consequences, including a ban on all telecom resources for up to two years.

Further Measures to Combat Spam

To strengthen its efforts, TRAI has introduced new rules for access providers. A key directive includes the whitelisting of URLs, APKs, and OTT links, with telecom providers given a one-month grace period to comply. Moreover, TRAI is considering imposing higher tariffs for phone calls and text messages sent from ten-digit mobile numbers if they exceed a certain daily limit. This measure is designed to target potential spam callers who misuse SMS services to defraud consumers.

• Compliance Reports: All access providers are required to submit an updated status report within 15 days of the directive, followed by a compliance report within 30 days.
• Noncompliance Penalties: Content templates that are improperly registered will be blacklisted, and sending parties may face service suspensions for up to a month if violations are repeated.

Looking Ahead

TRAI has urged all stakeholders to adhere to the new regulations and contribute to a spam-free communication experience for consumers. The regulator’s ongoing efforts, including a recent consultation paper proposing amendments to anti-spam rules, underscore its commitment to tackling the issue of spam calls and enhancing the overall quality of telecom services in India.

As the crackdown continues, consumers can expect a reduction in the number of unsolicited calls, marking a significant step toward a more secure and reliable telecom environment.