New Delhi. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has overhauled its anti‑spam framework, tightening rules for commercial tele‑marketing and imposing AI‑based screening as a non‑negotiable requirement for all service providers.
AI and Machine‑Learning Filters Become Compulsory
Under the revised regulations, every telecom operator must integrate artificial‑intelligence and machine‑learning algorithms into their network to flag suspicious commercial calls and messages. The technology is intended to spot abnormal traffic patterns and curb the repeated abuse of telephone numbers for unsolicited outreach.
Five‑Number Rule Triggers Disconnection
If a spammer’s five or more linked numbers are identified within a ten‑day window, the operator is empowered to cut the connection. The offending entity may also be placed on a blacklist for as long as one year, following the due‑process provisions outlined by TRAI.
New Charge on Automated Calls
To add another layer of accountability, TRAI has introduced a levy of 5 paise per minute on automated call services, targeting large‑scale robo‑dialing operations.
Misuse of Business Numbers and Templates
Operators must also act when a registered business number or a pre‑approved message template is exploited for spam. If a tele‑marketer is identified as the source, the authority can extend punitive measures to all numbers associated with that marketer, including possible blacklisting.
Consumer Redress: 15‑Day Appeal Window
Customers dissatisfied with a complaint resolution have 15 days to lodge an appeal. Appeals can be submitted via the DND app, the operator’s own app or portal, or by dialing 1909.
Mandatory Disclosure for Auto‑Dialed Calls
The updated framework covers auto‑dialers, robocalls, and calls that use pre‑recorded or AI‑generated voices. Such calls must disclose their automated nature to the recipient before the conversation begins.
No Blanket Blocking of Number Series
TRAI clarifies that call‑management apps cannot automatically label entire commercial series—such as 1600 or 1601—as spam solely based on the prefix.
Overall Impact
These measures aim to strengthen oversight of commercial communication, giving operators robust tools to detect, flag, and act against suspected spam activity while protecting consumer rights.
