Telecom Companies Begin Testing Caller ID Display Service in Mumbai and Haryana

Telecom companies in India have started testing a caller ID display service at select locations, including Mumbai and Haryana, following pressure from the government and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India. 

This service displays the caller’s name along with their number, aiming to reduce spam and fraudulent calls. The limited trials are expected to expand to other cities soon, providing users with enhanced security and transparency in their communications.

Telecom Companies Testing CNP Service

Telecom companies are conducting limited trials of the Calling Name Presentation (CNP) service. A senior telecom official informed the Times of India that the trials aim to understand how CNP functions. 

This service displays the caller’s name along with the number during incoming calls. The trial results will be shared with the Department of Telecommunications to make informed decisions about the potential rollout of this service.

CNP Service Similar to Truecaller

The Calling Name Presentation (CNP) service being tested by telecom companies is expected to function similarly to existing caller ID applications like Truecaller. Rishit Jhunjhunwala, Managing Director of Truecaller India, mentioned in an interview with Moneycontrol that although the new CNP service is akin to their current offerings, it will not negatively impact their business. 

This new feature aims to enhance the user experience by displaying the caller’s name along with the number during incoming calls.

Government Orders Blocking of Fake International Calls

Recently, the government directed telecom operators to block all fake international calls that appear as local Indian numbers. This decision follows complaints received by the Department of Telecommunications (DOT) regarding such calls being used for cybercrime and financial fraud. The initiative aims to protect users from these deceptive practices and enhance the overall security of telecommunications in India.

Understanding Spam Calls and Messages

What is a Spam Call or Message?

Spam calls or messages are unsolicited communications from unknown numbers, often used to scam people by offering loans, credit cards, lottery wins, or promoting products and services without consent.

Who Receives More Spam Calls?

People who frequently answer spam calls are more likely to receive them. Responding to these calls can add your number to lists that attract more spam.

How Do Companies Get Your Number?

Companies obtain your number from various sources, such as:

• Social media accounts
• App permissions
• Online purchases
• Public postings

These companies may sell your data to advertisers or third parties.

Precautions for Receiving Spam Calls:

• Disconnect immediately if asked to press a number.
• Avoid sharing personal information.
• Verify the caller’s identity if they claim to be from a bank or government agency by calling official numbers.
• Be cautious of calls demanding urgent personal information.

Understanding these aspects can help you protect your personal information and reduce the impact of spam communications.