New System To Identify Scam/Fraud Calls:
Department of Telecom (DoT) recently introduced a new tool to identify genuine calls from those made by fraudsters.
- 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.
- Telecom service providers (TSPs) are responsible for verifying each entity requesting a 160 series number.
- They will also obtain a commitment that the number will only be used for legitimate service and transactional calls.
