Telecom Dept Introduces System To Identify, Block International Spoofed Calls Targeting Indian Subscribers

DoT requested citizens to actively report suspicious communications in such cases to aid in identifying and preventing the misuse of telecom resources for cybercrimes and financial fraud.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), in partnership with Telecom Service Providers (TSPs), has introduced an advanced system designed to identify and block incoming international spoofed calls before they reach Indian telecom subscribers, according to a release by the Ministry of Communications.

The system will be implemented in two stages: initially at the TSP level to block spoofed calls using their subscribers' numbers, followed by a centralised approach to prevent spoofed calls originating from other TSPs.

Recently, the DoT also disengaged the WhatsApp account associated with a fraudulent mobile number involved in a scam call in Agra. "As of now, all four TSPs have successfully implemented the system. Approximately one-third of total spoofed calls, equating to 4.5 million calls, are being blocked from entering the Indian telecom network. The next phase, which involves a centralised system to eliminate the remaining spoofed calls across all TSPs, is expected to be commissioned shortly," the Communications ministry stated.

"Fraudsters continue to adapt and devise new methods to deceive the public. The DoT is taking timely measures to protect telecom users as new schemes are reported. In the rapidly evolving technological landscape, the DoT has implemented multiple strategies to make telecom ecosystems safer and more secure. However, even with these robust safeguards, instances where fraudsters succeed through other means may still occur," the ministry added.

Citizens are encouraged to report such calls via the Chakshu facility available on the Sanchar Saathi platform (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/). Users can provide details about suspected fraudulent calls, SMS, and WhatsApp messages, including screenshots, the medium of receipt, the category of intended fraud, and the date and time of the communication. An OTP-based verification will be carried out.

The Chakshu facility represents a significant initiative aimed at protecting citizens from cyber fraud by offering a streamlined process for reporting suspicious activities. This enables early detection and prevention of potential fraud, safeguarding users from financial and personal losses.

Government Measures to Prevent Misuse of Telecom Resources

The DoT has launched the Digital Intelligence Unit (DIU) project to develop systems that curb the misuse of telecom resources for cybercrime and financial fraud.

The citizen-focused Sanchar Saathi portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in) offers various tools for reporting cases related to telecom resource misuse.

The DoT has established a secure Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP) for the online sharing of information about telecom resource misuse among stakeholders, helping to prevent cybercrime and financial fraud.

Using AI-based tools, the DoT has identified mobile connections acquired with fake or forged documents or those exceeding the prescribed limits for individuals.

The DoT urges citizens to actively report suspicious communications to assist in identifying and preventing the misuse of telecom resources for cybercrime and financial fraud. This initiative also aims to protect individuals from impersonation and exploitation while enabling proactive measures against potential threats.