TRAI’s Caller ID Proposal Poses Threat To Privacy IAMAI

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The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) claims that the proposed mandate by TRAI to display callers’ names, known as Calling Name Presentation (CNAP), will pose a threat to privacy. CNAP, which was proposed by TRAI in November 2022, is intended to enable users to identify incoming callers.

IAMAI stated in a statement that TRAI’s proposal to make CNAP mandatory for telecommunications companies poses a “material risk to the privacy of Indian citizens.” The statement also mentioned that it could harm individuals who prefer not to be identified to the caller and expose vulnerable populations to targeted harassment.

The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) has expressed concerns over privacy and implementation in relation to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) proposal to require telecom service providers to display caller names.

IAMAI stated that while it appreciates TRAI’s aim to eliminate SPAM calls, mandatory implementation of CNAP is unlikely to be successful and will pose a significant privacy risk to users.

The industry body suggested that TRAI consider an opt-in approach as an alternative. Additionally, telecommunication companies have also opposed the proposal, claiming that it would result in significant costs for carriers.

IAMAI stated in a statement, said, that

The implementation of CNAP for such a massive quantum of users would require telecom providers to put in place a secure, synchronized and robust system capable of supporting billions of calls daily. This will require a significant overhaul of the current telecom infrastructure, resulting in carriers incurring huge costs.