TRAI Cracks Down on Spam: Over 21 Lakh Fraud Numbers Disconnected; New Advisory Issued

India’s telecom regulator has escalated its battle against digital fraud, announcing the disconnection and blacklisting of over 21 lakh mobile numbers in the past year for involvement in spam and scam activities. Additionally, nearly one lakh entities linked to unsolicited or fraudulent messaging have been taken offline.

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) stated that this enforcement drive is part of a broader strategy to curb rising cyber-fraud and protect mobile subscribers. The regulator strongly urged consumers to go beyond simply blocking suspicious numbers on their devices and instead formally report them via the official TRAI DND App.

Why Blocking Isn't Enough

TRAI emphasized that local blocking on a smartphone offers no systemic protection. While it stops the scammer from calling that specific user again, it allows them to continue targeting other potential victims.

In contrast, the regulator noted that its recent success in shutting down fraudulent numbers was driven largely by user reports filed through the DND app. These reports enable telecom operators and the regulator to trace the spam source, verify the misuse, and disable the number permanently.

Key Advice for Mobile Users

In its latest advisory, TRAI outlined specific precautions, particularly for vulnerable groups such as senior citizens, women, and individuals with limited digital literacy. The regulator provided the following guidelines:

• Report, Don’t Just Block: Download the TRAI DND App from official stores and report suspicious calls or SMS to ensure offenders are disconnected.
• Guard Personal Data: Never share banking details, OTPs, or personal information via phone, message, or social media.
• Stay Alert: Immediately disconnect any call that feels threatening, unusual, or suspicious.
• Utilize Government Tools: Use the "Chakshu" feature on the Sanchar Saathi platform to report suspected misuse of telecom resources before a fraud attempt succeeds.

For incidents involving financial loss or cybercrime, users are advised to immediately contact the National Cybercrime Helpline (1930) or lodge a complaint on the government’s cybercrime portal.

Summary:

TRAI’s latest move reflects a growing urgency to curb digital fraud in India. By removing over 21 lakh fraudulent numbers and pushing for community-led reporting, the regulator aims to build a coordinated defense against telecom scams—strengthening digital trust and reducing risks for millions of users.

FAQs: TRAI’s Crackdown on Spam and Fraud Calls

1. Why did TRAI disconnect over 21 lakh mobile numbers?

TRAI removed these numbers after detecting misuse related to spam calls, scam attempts, and fraudulent messaging activities. The goal is to protect mobile users and curb rising digital fraud across the country.

2. How does reporting a spam call actually help?

When a user reports spam through the TRAI DND App, telecom operators can trace the source of the call or message, verify misuse, and permanently disconnect the number. Reporting creates a system-level response that local blocking cannot achieve.

3. Is blocking a number on my phone enough to stop fraud?

No. Blocking only prevents the spammer from contacting you. It does nothing to stop them from targeting others. Only official reporting leads to investigation and permanent disconnection.

4. What is the TRAI DND App and where can I get it?

The TRAI DND (Do Not Disturb) App is an official tool for reporting spam calls and SMS. It is available on both Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

5. Who should be especially careful about spam and fraud calls?

TRAI highlights senior citizens, women, and individuals with limited digital literacy as more vulnerable to telecom fraud. However, all users should stay alert.

6. What is the “Chakshu” feature on Sanchar Saathi?

“Chakshu” is a feature on the government’s Sanchar Saathi platform that allows users to report suspicious communications before a fraud attempt is completed. It helps identify misuse of telecom resources early.

7. What should I do if I receive a suspicious or threatening call?

Disconnect immediately. Do not engage, do not share personal information, and report the number through the TRAI DND App.

8. What details should I never share over phone or SMS?

Never share banking details, OTPs, PINs, Aadhaar numbers, passwords, or any personal info via calls, SMS, emails, or social media.

9. How do I report a cyber fraud incident involving money loss?

Call the National Cybercrime Helpline at 1930 or file a complaint on the official government cybercrime portal as soon as possible.

10. Will these actions reduce scam calls in the future?

Yes. TRAI’s crackdown—combined with user reporting—creates a stronger detection and enforcement system. Over time, this reduces the number of active scam networks and improves overall digital safety.