Patna: India’s telecom regulator is considering sweeping new rules that could allow mobile numbers to be disconnected automatically if flagged as suspicious by artificial intelligence systems, in a move aimed at tackling the rising problem of spam calls and telecom fraud.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is preparing a regulatory framework expected to take effect in 2026 that would enable telecom companies to identify and act against suspicious numbers without waiting for formal consumer complaints. The proposed system would use AI-based monitoring tools to detect unusual calling patterns or behaviour linked to spam or fraudulent activity.
At present, telecom operators typically investigate and act on mobile numbers only after receiving complaints from users. Under the new proposal, however, numbers flagged by AI systems could be blocked or disconnected proactively. TRAI believes this approach could significantly reduce the volume of spam calls and fraudulent messages, which affect millions of mobile users across India each day.
The proposal has triggered concern among major telecom providers, including Reliance Jio, Airtel and Vodafone Idea. Industry representatives have warned that relying solely on automated systems could lead to errors, potentially disrupting services for legitimate users. Calls from banks, delivery services or customer support centres could be mistakenly flagged as suspicious, they said.
Operators have also raised questions about the process for restoring services if a number is incorrectly blocked. They argue that reactivation could involve complex verification procedures, causing inconvenience for users who depend on their mobile numbers for essential communication, financial transactions, or business operations. The issue has also raised broader concerns about consumer rights and the need for clear safeguards.
Telecom companies already use AI-driven filters to identify and block millions of spam calls and messages daily. However, fraudsters continue to adapt their tactics, prompting regulators to explore more aggressive enforcement tools. TRAI says the proposed measures are intended to strengthen consumer protection and improve trust in telecom networks.
If implemented, the rules could have significant implications for individuals and businesses, particularly those using personal numbers for promotional or high-volume calling. Experts say users may need to be more cautious about their calling patterns, as unusual activity could trigger automated enforcement and lead to temporary or permanent disconnection.
