New TRAI Rule to Curb Unwanted Calls and Messages
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has implemented a new rule to combat the growing problem of unsolicited and fraudulent calls and messages. This rule, effective from September 1, 2024, aims to significantly reduce the number of unwanted calls and messages received by subscribers.
New Rules:
Blacklisting of personal mobile numbers: Making telemarketing calls from a personal mobile number will result in a 2-year blacklist of the number.
New number series for telemarketing: A new series of 160 phone numbers has been launched specifically for telemarketing purposes, preventing fraud attempts.
Banned Calls and Messages:
This new rule specifically bans all promotional calls and messages from the 160 number series. Additionally, the new regulation covers automatically generated calls and messages, often referred to as ”robotic calls and messages.”
How to Complain:
If you receive unwanted calls or messages, you can file a complaint through two channels:
Sanchar Sathi Portal: Visit the website sancharsathi.gov.in, navigate to Citizen Centric Services, select Chakshu, and report the fraud.
Direct Complaint: Call 1909 if the message originates from a 10-digit mobile number.
How to File a Complaint:
- Visit the Sanchar Sathi Portal.
- Scroll down to Citizen Centric Services.
- Select the Chakshu option.
- Click on Reporting.
- Select the fraud category.
- Attach a screenshot of the call.
- Enter the mobile number of the sender.
- Record the date and time of the call/message.
- Enter your personal details.
- Verify with OTP and submit the complaint.