TRAI Approves Automatic Caller Name Display for Enhanced Telecom Security
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has approved the Department of Telecom's proposal for Calling Name Presentation (CNAP), a feature that will display the caller's registered name to recipients. CNAP will be enabled by default for all subscribers on 4G and advanced networks, with an opt-out option available. The initiative aims to prevent fraud calls and reduce cybercrime. Implementation is expected within six months of official notification, with the DoT collaborating with the Ministry of Electronics and IT to ensure device compatibility.

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has given its nod to a proposal from the Department of Telecom (DoT) that aims to bolster security and reduce fraud in telecommunications. This new initiative, known as Calling Name Presentation (CNAP), will automatically display the caller's registered name to recipients.
Key Features of CNAP
- Default Setting: CNAP will be enabled by default for all subscribers.
- Opt-Out Option: Recipients can choose to opt out of the service if desired.
- Technology Limitations: The feature will be available for 4G and more advanced networks, with 2G and 3G networks facing implementation challenges due to bandwidth constraints.
- CLIR Exemption: Subscribers using Calling Line Identification Restriction (CLIR) will be exempt from name display.
Objectives and Implementation
The primary goals of introducing CNAP are:
- Prevention of fraud calls
- Reduction in cybercrime activities, including digital arrest and financial frauds
To ensure widespread adoption, the DoT will collaborate with the Ministry of Electronics and IT. Their joint efforts will focus on making CNAP functionality available in all devices sold in India after a six-month implementation period following the official notification.
Impact on Subscribers
This new feature is set to significantly change how calls are received and identified in India. Here's a breakdown of what subscribers can expect:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Caller Identification | Original name of the caller displayed automatically |
| User Control | Option to opt out of the service available |
| Network Compatibility | Fully functional on 4G and advanced networks |
| Privacy Considerations | CLIR users exempt from automatic name display |
| Implementation Timeline | Expected within six months of official notification |
The introduction of CNAP represents a significant step towards enhancing telecommunication security and transparency in India. By providing real-time caller identification, this initiative aims to empower subscribers with more information and control over their incoming calls, potentially reducing the incidence of fraudulent activities conducted via phone calls.
As the implementation progresses, it will be interesting to observe how this change affects user behavior, privacy concerns, and the overall landscape of telecommunications in India. The success of this initiative could set a precedent for similar measures in other countries grappling with phone-based fraud and cybercrime.


























