From 1 November, Indian telecom operators must display the name of the person calling, even if the number is not saved in the recipient’s phone. The requirement applies to all mobile operators and will be introduced automatically for users. Indian media report this, citing a regulatory decision dated 13 October.
The service, Calling Name Presentation (CNAP), means that the caller’s name is displayed together with the telephone number. For unsaved domestic numbers, the name is retrieved from the operator’s customer register, while international calls are marked with the text “International Call”. Numbers already in the recipient’s contact list are not affected.
It has been known for some time that the service was in the works, but the launch date has now been set.
The rules initially cover mobile networks using 4G or later technology. Older mobile networks and fixed-line networks will be investigated separately. People who have activated protection against caller ID are exempt.
Companies must be able to display a registered trademark or company name after verification by the operator. Operators must also introduce procedures for complaints and ensure that the name details are not saved after calls have ended.
The decision is based on recommendations from India’s telecom authority from February 2024.
The communications app Truecaller operates in India, which is by far the company’s largest market.
