Policy Watch
Starting September: TRAI’s New Rules to Curb Spam Messages!
Starting September 1, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) will enforce new directives aimed at reducing spam calls and messages. The guidelines mandate the use of specific number series for different types of communications, with penalties for non-compliance. This move is expected to significantly benefit mobile users by curbing fraudulent activities and improving the traceability of promotional messages.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued new directives aimed at cracking down on fraudulent and spam calls and messages. These guidelines, directed at all telecom operators including Airtel, Jio, Vodafone-Idea, and BSNL, mandate significant changes to how promotional and transactional messages are handled. As per the new regulations, starting from September 1, all commercial messages will be required to use specific number series, such as 140 for promotional and 160 for financial transactions. This measure aims to enhance the traceability and authenticity of such communications.
How Will It Benefit Mobile Users?
For mobile users, these measures promise a significant reduction in the number of spam calls and messages. The new TRAI directives include provisions to penalize companies that send promotional messages from personal numbers, which has been a common tactic to bypass existing regulations. By introducing distinct number series for different types of communications, TRAI aims to prevent fraudulent activities and ensure that users receive only authenticated messages.
Moreover, this move will bring relief to users who have been plagued by spam calls and messages, especially from telemarketers. With stricter enforcement, users can expect to see a decline in unsolicited communications, thereby improving the overall user experience.
Enforcement Begins on November 1
TRAI has set a compliance deadline of November 1, 2024, for all telecom companies. From this date, any message or call that does not originate from the designated number series will be automatically rejected. This rule applies to both the sender and receiver of the message, ensuring a comprehensive approach to eliminating spam. Additionally, the new guidelines will blacklist entities that misuse headers or content templates, further tightening the noose on those attempting to circumvent the regulations.
Government’s Role in Ensuring Compliance
The government is also taking an active role in ensuring that these new measures are followed to the letter. Telecom companies have been warned that from September 1, any company failing to adhere to the regulations will face serious consequences. This includes the use of blockchain-based platforms to ensure that only registered entities can send promotional, financial, or banking messages. The government’s stringent approach underscores its commitment to safeguarding mobile users from fraudulent practices.
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