Caller names to appear on mobile screens from Nov

Mobile users in India will be able to see the names and phone numbers of incoming callers from November 1 under a new caller identification system aimed at curbing fraudulent calls and improving security.

The Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) service will automatically display caller details on 4G and 5G networks. If a number is saved in a user's contacts, the stored name will appear. Otherwise, the name registered with the caller's telecom operator will be displayed for domestic calls. Calls from abroad will be labelled “International Call”.

Telecom operators will maintain updated databases of customers' registered names and phone numbers to support the service. The guidelines also include privacy safeguards, ensuring that users who have activated Calling Line Identification Restriction (CLIR) can keep their identities hidden.

Businesses may also be allowed to display verified trade names instead of registered subscriber names, subject to document verification. The service follows months of trials on 4G and 5G networks.

Source: Hindustan Times

-AH