TRAI requests telcos to warn subscribers of messages in regulator’s name

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a cautionary message urging the public to be wary of messages claiming to be from TRAI. TRAI clarifies that it does not engage in the blocking or disconnection of any individual’s mobile number.

Fraudulent Calls and Messages
TRAI states that it has not authorized any agency to contact customers for activities related to mobile number disconnection. All calls or messages purporting to be from TRAI in this regard are fraudulent. Individuals are advised to treat any communication claiming to be from TRAI as potentially deceptive.

TRAI has observed instances where companies, agencies, and individuals falsely represent TRAI, informing customers that their mobile numbers will be disconnected due to alleged unsolicited messaging. These entities also falsely claim that Aadhar numbers have been misused for obtaining SIM cards and engaging in illegal activities.

The telecom body warns that these entities may attempt to lure customers into Skype video calls under the pretence of preventing mobile number disconnection.

Vigilance and Reporting
If you receive such calls, TRAI advises affected individuals to contact their service providers directly at the Customer Service Center. Additionally, incidents can be reported on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal cybercrime.gov.in or by calling the Cyber Crime Helpline Number 1930.

Commenting on the happenings, V. Raghunandan, Secretary, TRAI, said:
The public is hereby alerted that TRAI does not block or disconnect individual mobile numbers. TRAI neither sends messages nor makes calls for disconnection. No agency is authorized to contact customers, and such calls are illegal and subject to legal action.

Any communication claiming to be TRAI should be treated as potentially fraudulent. Under the Telecom Commercial Communication Customer Preference Regulation (TCCCPR) 2018, Access Service Providers must take necessary actions against mobile numbers involved in sending unsolicited communications.

TRAI has requested that as they usher in the new year, the four telcos send cautionary messages to their respective subscriber base. The message will be shared from BT-TRAIND header, a terminology used for TRAI all India.

The regulator is somewhat alarmed at the recent fraudulent messages to mobile subscribers, seeking to issue a no objection certificate (NOC) for tower installation or a verification of existing mobile number to avoid disconnection.
BCS Bureau