TRAI Cracks Down on Spam Calls; AI to Identify Spammers

TRAI has implemented new regulations regarding spam calls. AI will now identify suspicious numbers. A charge of up to 5 paise per minute will apply to robo-calls, and strict action will be taken against repeat offenders.

Telecom regulator TRAI has tightened rules for people plagued by persistent spam calls and fake numbers—such as those where a recorded voice plays the moment the phone is answered. The new regulations introduce charges between telecom companies for robo-calls, mandate the use of AI to identify spammers, and set new guidelines for spam-reporting apps.

Charge of up to 5 paise per minute for robo-calls

Companies must now inform their telecom service provider in advance about calls made using automated systems or AI. Making such calls without prior notification could lead to them being classified as spam.

If such a call reaches a subscriber on another company’s network, the receiving telecom company can charge the originating company up to 5 paise per minute. This charge will not be levied on the ordinary mobile subscriber.

However, this charge will not apply to calls originating from designated number series such as 140, 1600, and 1601.

AI to identify spammers

TRAI has also incorporated the use of AI into the regulations to detect spam. If the AI ​​system flags a number as a suspicious spammer, the information will be relayed to the telecom company. Subsequently, other numbers linked to that individual or company can also be investigated.

If five or more numbers belonging to the same entity are detected engaging in spam activity within a 10-day period, their KYC details may be re-verified. Physical verification at their residence or office may also be conducted if necessary. If irregularities are found, outgoing services for all associated numbers could be suspended for up to 15 days. A mechanism has been put in place for numbers mistakenly marked as spam to contest the classification and be removed from the spam list following a review.

Stricter action against spam complaints

The new rules also streamline the process for taking action based on complaints. Action can be initiated if a number receives three complaints and is also identified as a spammer by AI. The existing rule regarding five complaints remains in effect.

Repeated involvement in spam activities could lead to the suspension of all associated numbers for one year and the blacklisting of the individual or entity involved.

Spam-detection apps must also comply with rules

TRAI has formulated regulations for call management apps that identify and block spam. These apps will no longer be permitted to unilaterally label calls originating from government-authorized or TRAI-designated number series as spam.

Furthermore, the ‘Report Spam’ feature within an app will only be considered valid if the complaint reaches the telecom companies’ DLT systems. In other words, merely reporting the issue on the app is insufficient; the complaint must also reach the system responsible for enforcement actions.

Changes to DND settings

Settings will also be modified for users who previously selected the ‘Fully Block’ option via 1909; this will be transitioned to ‘Block Promo’. This change ensures that promotional calls and messages are blocked while allowing the receipt of essential communications such as OTPs, bank alerts, delivery updates, flight information, and important government messages.

Users can opt for ‘Block Promo’ via 1909 to completely stop promotional messages.

Action against fraudulent messages using company names

New rules have been introduced to curb the misuse of Sender IDs associated with banks or companies by fraudsters. Such Sender IDs can be blocked within six hours. The company whose name was misused will be required to change its passwords and API credentials, as well as file a police complaint.

When will the rules come into effect?

According to TRAI, the various provisions will be implemented at different times. Most of the rules will come into effect 30 days after being published in the Gazette. Meanwhile, regulations concerning disclosures for robocalls and charges of up to 5 paise per minute will take effect after 60 days. Certain provisions, such as those linking AI to grievance redressal and enforcement actions, will be implemented after 90 days.

According to TRAI data, over 11.49 lakh spam-related complaints were received between January and April 2026. In April alone, 20,591 connections linked to spam activities were disconnected. The new rules aim to curb such fraudulent and harassing calls.