TRAI instructs Indian telecom companies to stop spam calls, blacklist callers
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is taking active measures to control the menace of spam calls in the country. In a recent move, the country’s telecom watchdog has issued a directive to all network operators, asking them to stop promotional calls from unregistered callers, according to an official statement released by TRAI on August 13. As part of the order, TRAI has also asked telecom companies operating in India to blacklist spam calls, many of which pose a financial threat to the state’s citizens.
According to this directive by TRAI, all telecom companies in India must curb promotional calls, whether pre-recorded, computer-generated or otherwise originating from unregistered telemarketers (UTMs) or unregistered senders.
“This decisive action by TRAI is expected to significantly reduce spam calls and provide relief to consumers,” the proposition signed by TRAI Secretary Atul Kumar Chaudhary.
The telecom regulator has also decided on the consequences for those who violate this rule. According to the notification, any unregistered telemarketer who misuses his telecom resources can lose all his telephone connection resources. The network connection is monitored and performed by the Originating Access Provider (OAP) and can last for two years. During the blacklisting period, these UTMs will not be provided with new telecom resources by an access provider.
TRAI uses blockchain for spam call monitoring
The blockchain technology, also known as Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT), has been adopted by the TRAI as part of its efforts to tackle the problem of rising spam calls in India.
In its statement, the telecom regulator said: “Information regarding the sender’s blacklisting should be shared by the OAP with all other access providers on the DLT platform within 24 hours.” Following which, all telecom resources provided to the sender will be disconnected.
Further, UTMs making commercial voice calls will also be migrated to TRAI’s blockchain platform within 30 days of the issuance of this notification. UTMs have been asked to file a compliance report within seven days thereafter. news TRAI’s blockchain platform launch for these purposes was first reported in November 2023.
“All access providers are directed to adhere to these guidelines and provide regular updates on the measures taken on 1st and 16th of every month,” the TRAI statement said.
Commenting on TRAI’s adoption of blockchain, Sharat Chandra told Gadgets360 that this is TRAI’s attempt to ensure that only legitimate entities can send bulk communications, thereby protecting consumers from fraudulent activities. Chandra is the founder of blockchain-focused investment firm EmpowerEdge Ventures.
“TRAI’s implementation of blockchain will significantly improve the daily lives of citizens by creating a more secure and transparent communication environment,” Chandra said.
