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TRAI Introduces CNAP Calling Feature to Combat Spam Calls: Caller ID to Include Name Along with Number

Introduction:
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has taken a significant step towards curbing spam calls and enhancing user security with the introduction of the Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) feature. This innovative addition to mobile calling aims to provide users with greater transparency by displaying both the caller's name and number on their screens. Let's delve into the details of this new initiative and its potential impact on combating spam and fraudulent activities.

1. Understanding CNAP Calling Feature: Enhancing Call Identification

• The CNAP calling feature, introduced by TRAI, aims to empower users with additional information when receiving phone calls.
• With this feature enabled, users will see not only the caller's number but also their name, making it easier to identify incoming calls and distinguish legitimate ones from spam or fraudulent calls.

2. Addressing the Issue of Spam Calls: TRAI's Response

• Spam calls have been a persistent issue for mobile users, causing inconvenience and posing security risks.
• In response to this challenge, TRAI has proposed the implementation of CNAP services to telecom operators, aiming to provide users with enhanced call identification and spam detection capabilities.

   
3. How CNAP Works: Enhancing User Security and Transparency

• Upon receiving a call, users will now see the caller's name alongside their number on their mobile screens, offering greater transparency and helping users make informed decisions about answering calls.
• This added layer of information enables users to quickly recognize known contacts and identify potential spam or fraudulent callers, reducing the likelihood of falling victim to scams.

4. Collaboration with Telecom Operators: Implementation and Regulation

• TRAI has urged telecom operators to seek users' consent before enabling CNAP services, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations and safeguarding user data.
• The implementation of CNAP requires telecom operators to maintain a database linking users' names with their phone numbers, facilitating accurate caller identification and spam detection.

5. Potential Impact on Spam Call Prevention: Strengthening User Protection

• The introduction of CNAP calling is expected to significantly reduce the prevalence of spam calls and fraudulent activities by providing users with enhanced call identification capabilities.
• By empowering users to make informed decisions about incoming calls, CNAP contributes to strengthening user protection and enhancing overall mobile communication security.

Conclusion:
TRAI's introduction of the CNAP calling feature marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat spam calls and enhance user security in the mobile communication landscape. By providing users with greater transparency and control over incoming calls, CNAP promises to revolutionize the way we identify and respond to phone calls, ultimately leading to a safer and more secure mobile communication experience for all users.