pc: Navbharat Times

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has announced changes in telecom rules, which will come into effect from November 1, 2024. This new rule requires all telecom operators to implement message traceability, which will increase monitoring of messages received on mobile phones.

What does message traceability mean?

From November 1, all messages coming on your phone will be checked. In simple words, a new system will be introduced to block fraudulent calls and messages, making them easier to identify. Users will also have the option to block any unwanted messages or calls if they wish.

In August, TRAI had directed telecom companies to block messages from banks, e-commerce sites and financial institutions that are to telemarketing and promotions. TRAI stressed that telemarketing messages should follow a standard format. This will help users identify promotional messages and calls, thereby reducing the risk of fraud.

While the initiative aims to tackle rising online fraud in India, there are concerns about potential delays in receiving important banking messages and OTPs, which could disrupt online payments. Telecom operators have confirmed their readiness to implement the new system by the deadline. According to the report, currently around 1.5 to 1.7 billion commercial messages are sent every day in India. However, the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), which includes major telecom companies like Jio, Airtel and Vodafone-Idea, has requested TRAI to extend two months to implement the message traceability rules. He believes this additional time will help ensure a smooth transition to the new system.