TRAI’s Revised Rules vs Earlier Rules under TCCCPR, 2018
Aspect |
Earlier Provision (TCCCPR, 2018) |
Updated Provision (Feb 2025 Amendment) |
Complaint Window for Spam Calls/SMS |
Customers could file complaints within 3 days of receiving spam. |
Complaint window extended to 7 days. |
Action Timeline for Unregistered Telemarketers (UTMs) |
Telcos had 30 days to take action. |
Telcos must act within 5 days. |
Threshold for Action Against Spammers |
Action was taken if 10 complaints in 7 days were received. |
Action now triggered by 5 complaints in 10 days. |
SMS Header Tagging for Message Type |
No clear tagging system for easy identification. |
SMS headers must be tagged with: |
Number Series for Telemarketing |
Telemarketers used 10-digit numbers or 140 series. |
10-digit numbers banned for telemarketing. |
Action Against Repeat Violators |
General warnings or disconnections without strict penalties. |
- 1st Violation: 15-day bar on outgoing services. |
Penalties on Telcos for Misreporting Spam Complaints |
Not explicitly defined. |
Financial disincentives: |
Detection Mechanism (Spam Analysis) |
No AI-based detection mandated. |
Mandatory use of AI/analytics to detect patterns like: |
User Opt-Out from Promotional Messages |
Not strictly enforced. |
Telcos must provide opt-out mechanism, with opt-in option anytime. |
Telemarketer Registration Requirements |
Basic registration process. |
Mandatory physical verification, biometric authentication, and mobile number linking. |
Reporting Tools (DND App) |
DND app outdated and rarely used. |
Revamped DND app launched for easy spam reporting by use |
About Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is the statutory regulatory body established to oversee and regulate the telecommunication sector in India. Key Facts:
TRAI vs TDSAT While TRAI is the regulatory authority, Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) is the adjudicatory body formed under the TRAI (Amendment) Act, 2000 to settle disputes arising from telecom regulation and decisions of TRAI. |
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