TRAI's Bold Step Against Spam Calls, Telecoms Face Strong Penalties

TRAI has strengthened the rules to stop spam calls and mentioned penalties. The misuse of 10-digit numbers will cease, and telemarketers must follow a new number series. Reporting spam calls will be made easy, with fines imposed.

Source: aajtak

In a significant move, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has intensified efforts to combat spam calls, also announcing plans for penalties. Mobile users will now find it easier than ever to report spam and unwanted commercial calls (UCC), relieving them of these irritations. Information about this initiative was shared by TRAI on the X platform (formerly known as Twitter).

To enhance consumer protection, TRAI has amended the Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference Regulations (TCCCPR), 2018. This change will allow users to finally get rid of telemarketing calls originating from 10-digit numbers and simplify the reporting process. The regulatory body is also advocating for penalties against errant telecom companies, which has sparked some discontent among telecom operators.

New Number Series to be Implemented

TRAI had previously stopped the use of 10-digit numbers for commercial communications. The new number series will begin with 140 and 1600. The 140 series will handle promotional calls, while the 1600 series will be used for transaction-related calls.

Tightening the Noose Around Unregistered Telemarketers

With TRAI's latest decision, unregistered telemarketers, who have been exploiting telecom resources, will face stricter controls. Offenders will face penalties, and first-time violators will be suspended for 15 days. Repeated violations could lead to a year-long disconnection from telecom resources.

Penalties for Telecom Companies

Telecom operators may also face penalties for non-compliance. Penalties could start at INR 200,000, increasing to INR 500,000. Recurring offenses could see fines soar to INR 1 million.

COAI Questions Exclusion of Messaging Apps

COAI, representing telecom companies, has expressed concern over increased penalties. They also questioned why social messaging apps, such as WhatsApp and Telegram, were excluded from these regulations.