Indian Government India Implements New Blocking System For International Spoofed Calls

India's Department of Telecommunications and Telecom Service Providers have implemented measures to block international spoofed calls, protecting citizens from financial fraud and cybercrime. Users can report suspected fraud via the Sanchar Saathi portal for enhanced security.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) in India have introduced a system to identify and block international spoofed calls targeting Indian citizens. These fraudulent calls, which appear to originate within India but are actually made from abroad, are used by cyber-criminals to commit financial frauds and cybercrimes.

Fraudsters manipulate the calling line identity (CLI) to make these calls look like they are coming from Indian mobile numbers. Recent scams using this technique include fake digital arrests, FedEx scams, false accusations involving drugs or narcotics in courier packages, impersonation of government and police officials, and threats of mobile disconnection by DoT or TRAI officials.

To combat this issue, the DoT has directed TSPs to block such incoming international spoofed calls. This measure extends the existing practice of blocking international spoofed calls using Indian landline numbers, as per previous DoT directives.

The safety and security of telecom users are key priorities under the Digital India initiative. The DoT has launched several initiatives, including the citizen-centric Sanchar Saathi portal (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/), aimed at protecting telecom users from various types of fraud.

Despite these efforts, some fraudsters may still manage to bypass the system. Users are encouraged to report any suspected fraudulent calls through the Chakshu facility on the Sanchar Saathi portal. By doing so, they can help protect themselves and others from falling victim to these scams.

International spoofed calls are a growing concern globally. Cyber-criminals use advanced technology to disguise their actual location, making it difficult for authorities to trace them. These calls often lead to significant financial losses and emotional distress for victims.

The Sanchar Saathi portal is an important tool for Indian telecom users. It provides services like tracking lost or stolen mobile phones, verifying the authenticity of telecom resources, and reporting fraudulent activities. The portal aims to empower users with the information and tools they need to stay safe in the digital world.

Blocking international spoofed calls is a critical step in safeguarding users, but it is also essential for individuals to remain vigilant. Recognizing the signs of potential scams, such as requests for personal information or immediate payment, can help users avoid falling prey to these schemes.

The DoT's proactive approach and the cooperation of TSPs demonstrate a strong commitment to enhancing the security of India's telecom network. As cyber threats continue to evolve, ongoing efforts to educate and protect users are vital in maintaining a secure digital environment.