DoT to roll out caller ID feature for 4G, 5G

Nationwide trials of CNAP have been completed; 2G users to be left out

- Jatin Grover

People using 4G or 5G phones will soon be able to see the names of anonymous callers, a move designed to curb the menace of spam calls.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has written to the telecom regulator, informing it that operators have successfully completed nationwide trials of the calling name presentation (CNAP) service for 4G and newer networks, and the service can be rolled out immediately.

The feature, which the DoT will formally notify soon, aims to help users identify who is calling, make an informed decision about whether to pick up, and reduce unwanted spam calls and fraud.

Telecom operators will display verified caller names using the details in the customer application form (CAF), which every user fills out when applying for a new phone connection.