New System to Identify Scam/Fraud Calls

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About New System to Identify Scam/Fraud Calls:

Dedicated Phone Number Series: The DoT has allocated a dedicated 10-digit numbering series starting with 160 for service and transactional calls made by the government, regulators, and financial entities.
These 10-digit numbers will include additional information to help you recognize the caller.
The 10-digit number series has been designed by the DoT in such a manner that citizens will get an idea about calling entities as well as the telecom operator and the place from where it has originated.
This new system aims to give you more information about incoming calls, empowering you to identify potential scams.
Incoming calls from banks, government departments to display 160 Prefix:
- The 10-digit number will have a 160 prefix and will be issued in 1600ABCXXX format for government, financial institutions, and telecom regulators.
The AB will show the code of the telecom circle, like 11 for Delhi and 22 for Mumbai.
While the digit at C place will show the code of the telecom operator.
The XXX will be digits between 000-999.
Numbers for financial institutions to be issued in 1601ABCXXX format:
- For financial entities regulated by the RBI, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), PFRDA (Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority), and Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA), the 10-digit number will be issued in 1601ABCXXX format.
Verification and Transparency:
- Telecom service providers (TSPs) are responsiblefor verifying each entityrequesting a 160 series number.

They will also obtain a commitment that the number will only be used for legitimate service and transactional calls.

Q1: What is a Telecom service provider (TSP)?

A TSP is a type of communications service provider that has traditionally provided telephone and similar services. This category includes incumbent local exchange carriers, competitive local exchange carriers, and mobile wireless communication companies.

Source: Telecom Ministry Introduces New System To Identify Scam/Fraud Calls; Here’s How It Works