Caller's real name will be visible on mobile; new rule to be implemented from next month to curb fraud..

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has taken a significant step to curb fraudulent calls from unknown numbers and instances of digital fraud. The Department has directed all telecom operators to mandatorily implement the Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) service across the country, effective November 1, 2026. Once this system is in place, incoming calls will display not only the phone number but also the official, verified name of the caller on the mobile screen. This will make it easier to identify fraudsters who pose as bank officials or other entities to carry out scams.

According to government guidelines, telecom service providers have already tested the CNAP service on wireless terrestrial networks operating on 4G and subsequent-generation technologies. This feature will be automatically made available to eligible users; customers will not need to submit a separate request for it. A decision regarding the implementation of CNAP on 2G, 3G, and Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTN) will be taken separately following further review.

Currently, only the number is displayed
Under the new system, the caller's name will become part of the Calling Line Identification (CLI). At present, only the phone number is visible. With the new system, the CLI will provide two pieces of information on the recipient's mobile screen: the caller's phone number and their name.

If the name is saved, that is what will appear
The name displayed on the recipient's screen will depend on whether the caller's number is saved in the phone's contact list. If the number is already saved, the saved name will continue to be displayed. If the number is not saved, then for domestic calls, the caller's name will appear as recorded in the subscriber database of the telecom operator from whose network the call originated. International calls will simply be identified as "International Call." Strict Data Security and Privacy Regulations

Under Rule 48(1) of the Telecommunications Rules, 2026, Calling Line Identification (CLI) has been made fully secure to prevent any tampering. A ‘security-by-design’ model has been mandated to protect consumer privacy. Consequently, once a call ends, data associated with a name will be removed from the system, and operators will not be permitted to retain it.

Special Provisions for Businesses and Companies
To provide relief to business entities and companies that make large volumes of calls, they are permitted to display their registered trademark or the business name as recorded on the GST portal on the recipient's screen. This will help customers distinguish between legitimate official calls and suspicious spam calls.

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