TRAI's Tough Love: Over 1.8 Million Numbers Blocked to Combat Spam Calls – Check If Your Number is Safe!
NEW DELHI — The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has intensified its efforts to combat spam calls and messages by blocking over 1.8 million mobile numbers and 680 entities in the last 45 days. This move is part of TRAI's ongoing initiative to ensure a spam-free communication environment for users.
Strict Action Against Scammers
In a recent announcement via its official X handle, TRAI informed that service providers have been directed to take strict action against spammers. As a result, these entities have been blacklisted, and their mobile services have been terminated. This latest crackdown adds to the ongoing efforts, as TRAI has previously blocked over 10 million numbers linked to scam activities.
Last month alone, TRAI took decisive action by shutting down 350,000 mobile numbers involved in fraudulent practices. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and TRAI are working together to enhance service quality and reduce the prevalence of spam in communication.
New Regulations for Telemarketers
TRAI's new regulations, effective October 1, mandate network operators to use technology to block messages containing URLs, APK links, and OTT links. Users will no longer receive messages that contain any URLs unless they are from institutions or telemarketers that have been whitelisted. Telemarketers can apply to whitelist their messages based on templates suggested by the regulatory authority, particularly for messages that include sensitive information such as OTPs.
How to Check for SIM Cards Registered in Your Name
To ensure that your mobile number is not associated with any unrecognized SIM cards, follow these steps:
- Visit sancharsaathi.gov.in.
- Enter your 10-digit mobile number and type the captcha code.
- An OTP will be sent to your mobile number.
- Enter the OTP on the website.
- A new page will display the list of registered mobile numbers under your name.
If you notice any numbers you do not use, you can block them. Additionally, if you find any suspicious numbers, you can report them by clicking the checkbox on the left, selecting the "Not My Number" option, and then clicking the "Report" button below.
As TRAI continues its efforts to enhance consumer protection, users are encouraged to stay informed about their registered numbers and report any irregularities promptly.
