Huge crackdown! TRAI blocks over 21 lakh fraud numbers, 1 lakh entities in past one year

In the statement, the Ministry said: "This large-scale action was made possible because citizens reported spam through the official TRAI DND App. "

TRAI issued an advisory urging citizens to report spam calls/SMS through the TRAI DND App.

When a user reports a spam call or SMS on the TRAI DND App, it allows TRAI and telecom service providers to trace, verify, and permanently disconnect the mobile numbers.

In contrast, blocking a number on phone only hides it on your personal device- it does not prevent the scammer from contacting others using new numbers.

TRAI suggested citizens to take the following steps:

Download the TRAI DND App from official app stores.

Report spam SMS/calls using TRAI DND App instead of blocking them on phones to help identify and disconnect offenders.

Avoid sharing personal or banking details on calls, messages, or social media.

Disconnect immediately if receiving threatening or suspicious calls.

Report cyber frauds to the National Cybercrime Helpline (1930) or www.cybercrime.gov.in.

Report attempted fraud through misuse of telecom resources using Sanchar Saathi's "Chakshu" feature.