Regulator tightens rules on spam calls for telecom companies

The Indian telecom regulator has increased the responsibility of telecom companies to stop unwanted business calls and messages on mobile phones. The regulator has strengthened the use of AI and machine learning-based technology to identify and prevent unwanted business calls and messages. The new rules and guidelines aim to identify suspicious spam activities not only after a customer complaint but also through the technical systems present in the network of telecom companies. These systems will then take necessary action. The regulator has also emphasized the sharing of information between different telecom companies. If suspicious spam activity related to a number or entity is found on one network, the identification information related to it can be shared with other operators.

This makes it difficult for spammers to continue their activities by using multiple connections on different company networks. If an individual or entity has more than one connection, the other connections on the related network can also be checked. The regulator's arrangement also gives importance to technical measures based on AI and ML such as UCC_Detect. Their goal is to identify the patterns of spam calls and messages and to identify suspicious activities in time. In addition, telecom companies need to strengthen their technical systems to analyze data and signals related to spam. This can help in identifying unwanted business calling on a large scale. The regulator has also provided provisions for action against numbers that make spam calls. According to the rules, warnings, usage restrictions, or disconnection of related telecom resources can be imposed in case of violations.

In case of serious or repeated violations, the spammer can be blacklisted. However, before taking action on a number, the applicable rules and investigation process are followed. The entire arrangement aims to relieve mobile users from continuous unwanted business calls and messages and to control spam activities on telecom networks. However, the role of customers is also important. If a suspicious or annoying call comes from a number, it should be reported, blocked, and the available complaint system should be used. In this way, technology, monitoring by telecom companies, and reporting by customers can all help to reduce spam calls and fraudulent communications.