TRAI Directs Mobile Firms to Strengthen Apps and Portals Against Spam Messages

By siliconindia  |  Tuesday, 25 June 2024, 12:49:40 PM IST

TRAI Directs Mobile Firms to Strengthen Apps and Portals Against Spam Messages
In a proactive move to combat the menace of spam calls and messages, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued new directives to mobile service providers, compelling them to enhance their mobile applications and web portals.
The focus of these directives is to improve user accessibility for registering complaints related to unsolicited commercial communication (UCC). TRAI mandates that mobile apps and websites must streamline the process for registering UCC complaints and managing user preferences effectively.
According to TRAI, the updated guidelines require mobile service providers to ensure that essential details for complaint registration are automatically filled in, subject to user permission to access relevant data such as call logs.
Furthermore, TRAI has introduced amendments to the performance monitoring report formats (PMRs). Previously reported on a quarterly basis, PMRs must now be submitted monthly by all mobile service providers. This change aims to enhance regulatory oversight and ensure prompt action against violations.
Earlier this month, TRAI took another significant step by allocating 160 mobile phone series exclusively for making transactional and service voice calls. These series are designated for entities regulated by financial authorities like RBI, SEBI, IRDAI, and PFRDA. This measure is aimed at preventing fraudulent activities and enhancing transparency in caller identification.
"The allocation of the 160 mobile series will facilitate easy identification of the calling entity, thereby bolstering consumer protection efforts", stated the Ministry of Communications.
These initiatives underscore TRAI's commitment to safeguarding consumer interests and improving the overall telecom service experience in India. As mobile usage continues to surge, particularly in digital transactions and communications, robust regulatory measures are crucial to maintaining trust and security in the telecom sector.

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