The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has intensified its fight against international spoofed calls, leveraging advanced technology and citizen reporting through the newly launched Sanchar Saathi Mobile App and Portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in).
Spoofed calls, often used by fraudsters to impersonate legitimate authorities, have become a major tool for cyber-crime and financial fraud in India. These calls appear to originate from Indian mobile numbers but are actually made from abroad using manipulated Caller Line Identity (CLI).
Proactive Measures to Combat Fraud
DoT, in collaboration with all Telecom Service Providers (TSPs), has developed an International Incoming Spoofed Calls Prevention System, which has proven to be highly effective. Within 24 hours of implementation, the system blocked approximately 1.35 crore spoofed calls, reducing such calls to about 4 lakh per day.
As scammers adapt their tactics, now using international numbers for spoofing, DoT has instructed TSPs to display “International Call” labels on calls originating from abroad. This measure ensures that citizens can identify such calls as international and recognize them as unlikely to be from Indian government organizations like DoT, TRAI, RBI, UIDAI, or customs.
One major telecom provider has already implemented this feature, and others are in the process of following suit.
Blocking Malicious Carriers
To further curb the menace, DoT has directed Indian telecom operators to block international carriers repeatedly transmitting spoofed CLI traffic to India. Major providers like Airtel, BSNL, and RJIL have already blocked over 20 carriers/aggregators suspected of facilitating these fraudulent calls.
Citizen Collaboration Through Sanchar Saathi
Citizen participation is a cornerstone of DoT’s anti-fraud strategy. The Sanchar Saathi Mobile App and Portal empower users to report suspicious calls directly from their call logs. Available on both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, the app places fraud reporting at citizens’ fingertips.
Citizens are urged to exercise caution when receiving calls from unfamiliar international numbers, especially those claiming to represent government agencies. Proactive reporting of suspicious calls on Sanchar Saathi helps DoT take swift action against fraudsters.
A Secure Telecom Ecosystem
DoT remains committed to ensuring a secure telecom environment for all. By implementing advanced solutions and engaging with stakeholders, the department is tackling cyber-crime head-on.
Report Suspected Fraud Calls Today
To contribute to this initiative, citizens can download the Sanchar Saathi Mobile App or visit the Sanchar Saathi Portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in). QR codes for the app are also available for easy access.
Together, let’s build a safer telecom ecosystem for all.
