The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has approved the Department of Telecommunications’ (DoT) proposal to introduce the Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) feature — a system that will automatically display the caller’s registered name on the recipient’s phone screen.
The move is part of a broader effort to enhance telecom security, prevent fraud, and reduce cybercrime, marking one of the most significant regulatory updates in India’s telecom landscape in recent years.
Key Features of CNAP
- Automatic Activation: CNAP will be enabled by default for all subscribers on 4G and advanced networks.
- User Flexibility: Subscribers will have the option to opt out of the feature.
- Limited Network Scope: Implementation on 2G and 3G networks may face challenges due to bandwidth limitations.
- Privacy Protection: Users who have Calling Line Identification Restriction (CLIR) enabled will remain exempt from name display.
Implementation Framework
The DoT will work closely with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to ensure the feature’s seamless rollout and device compatibility. CNAP will be implemented within six months of the official notification, and the functionality will be mandatory in all new mobile devices sold in India thereafter.
Objectives and Expected Impact
The CNAP feature is designed to:
- Prevent fraudulent and spam calls by revealing the caller’s verified identity.
- Enhance subscriber trust and transparency in mobile communications.
- Curb rising cases of cyber fraud, including scams such as “digital arrest” and financial phishing attempts.
Impact on Users
| Aspect | Details |
| Caller Identification | Displays the original name of the caller automatically |
| User Control | Opt-out option available |
| Network Compatibility | Works on 4G and newer networks |
| Privacy Exemption | CLIR users exempted |
| Implementation Timeline | Within six months of notification |
The introduction of CNAP represents a pivotal step in India’s ongoing efforts to make telecom networks safer, more transparent, and user-friendly. By enabling real-time caller identification, TRAI aims to empower users, deter fraudsters, and strengthen digital trust in mobile communication systems.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. The securities or companies mentioned are provided as examples and should not be considered as recommendations. Nothing contained herein constitutes personal financial advice or investment recommendations. Readers are advised to conduct their own research and consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
Investments in securities markets are subject to market risks. Please read all related documents carefully before investing.