New System to Identify Scam/Fraud Calls

About New System to Identify Scam/Fraud Calls:

• Dedicated Phone Number Series:  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.
• Verification and Transparency:
  • 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.