DoT To Combat Spoofed Calls Based on Reporting of Citizens on Newly Launched Mobile App and Portal

Fraudsters were earlier using international spoofed calls that displayed Indian mobile numbers (+91-xxxxx) to deceive Indian citizens and carrying out cyber-crimes and financial frauds. Though these calls appear to originate from within India, they are actually made from abroad through manipulation of the Calling Line Identity (CLI), commonly referred to as phone number.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has actively intervened, launching an indigenously developed International Incoming Spoofed Calls Prevention System, along with all Telecom Service Providers (TSPs). The tool proved to be a formidable barrier that blocked 90% of all the incoming international calls which were identified as spoofed calls — approximately 1.35 crore, in just 24 hours.

Moving forward, the DoT has taken significant steps to combat spoofed calls through the newly launched Sanchar Saathi mobile app and portal.

Here are some key points:

1. Reporting Platform: The Sanchar Saathi app allows users to report suspected fraudulent communications directly from their call logs. This simplifies the process of flagging suspicious activities.

2. International Spoofed Calls: Fraudsters were using international spoofed calls that displayed Indian mobile numbers to deceive citizens. DoT has implemented an International Incoming Spoofed Calls Prevention System, which has blocked approximately 1.35 crore spoofed calls in just 24 hours.

3. Telecom Service Providers' Role: DoT has asked Indian telecom service providers to block traffic from international carriers repeatedly sending spoofed calls. Over 20 such carriers/aggregators have been blocked.

4. Citizen Participation: Citizens are encouraged to exercise caution when receiving calls from unfamiliar international numbers, especially those claiming to be government authorities. They can report such incidents through the Sanchar Saathi app and portal.

This initiative is part of DoT's broader efforts to create a safer digital environment for mobile users across India.

How The Sanchar Saathi App Works

The Sanchar Saathi app is a citizen-centric initiative by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to empower mobile subscribers and enhance their security. Here's how it works:

1. Chakshu - Report Suspected Fraud Communication: Users can report suspected fraudulent calls and SMS directly from their call logs.

2. Block Your Lost/Stolen Mobile Handset: If your mobile device is lost or stolen, you can block it through the app, which helps in tracing and recovering the device.

3. Know Mobile Connections in Your Name: The app allows you to identify and manage all mobile connections issued in your name, ensuring no unauthorized usage.

4. Know Genuineness of Your Mobile Handset: You can verify the authenticity of your mobile handset to ensure you're using a genuine device.

5. Report Incoming International Call with Indian Number: Users can report international calls that display Indian numbers, which helps in identifying and blocking spoofed calls.

6. Know Your Wireline Internet Service Provider: The app provides information about your wireline internet service provider.

The app is available for both Android and iOS platforms, making it accessible to a wide range of users. It aims to create a safer digital environment for mobile users across India by providing these critical tools and services.