1600 Series Number: TRAI's big decision, now it is easy to identify real and fake calls, learn how..

TRAI (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) has taken a significant step to prevent fake bank calls, scams, and fraud. Now, calls from any government institution, bank, NBFC, stockbroker, or mutual fund company will come from the 1600 number series. This system will simplify call identification and prevent fraud.

It's now easier to identify unknown numbers.
For a long time, fake bank calls and scam calls have been targeting people. Some would pose as bank employees and ask for OTPs, others would lure people with KYC verification information, and others would extract information by promising loan offers. Consequently, people were unable to distinguish between genuine and fraudulent calls. Therefore, TRAI has launched a secure unified caller identification system, the 1600 number series. Now, calls from genuine institutions will come from 1600, while people can be wary of other unknown numbers.

The rules will come into effect next year.
TRAI has decided to implement this rule in a phased manner, starting January 1, 2026. From this date, the 1600 series will be applicable to all public, private, and foreign banks. By February 2026, it will be mandatory for mutual fund companies, asset management companies, pension institutions, large NBFCs, and payment banks. By March 2026, the dates for large stockbrokers, cooperative banks, regional rural banks, small financial institutions, and insurance companies will be announced.

These are the benefits:
Once implemented, people will be able to immediately distinguish between genuine and fraudulent calls. Now, people will be able to confidently communicate with calls starting with 1600. Fake callers will not be able to use this series, increasing both awareness and security. It will also increase trust in the banking system. TRAI says this step was essential to strengthen digital security. The new rule will be a game-changer in preventing phishing and bank fraud in the country.

Take precautions:
Be wary of bank calls other than the 1600 series.

Do not share any information over the phone, including OTP, PIN, CVV, or password.

Immediately block suspicious calls.
If necessary, call the bank's helpline to verify.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.