New Delhi, Oct 15 The Department of Telecom (DoT) has mandated that all networks display callers’ original names on 4G and 5G mobile networks, technically called CNAP service, from November 1, according to an official circular.
In a circular dated October 13, the DoT said telecom operators have carried out trials to introduce CNAP (Calling Name Presentation) on 4G and higher-generation technologies.
“All telecommunication service providers… are hereby instructed to introduce calling name presentation service in their telecommunication networks across all service areas with effect from November 1, 2026,” the circular said.
The technology has been introduced in the network to prevent online frauds.
“Introduction of calling name presentation service in wireless terrestrial networks established using 2G and 3G technologies and in public switched telephone networks shall be considered separately, after examination of the matter,” the circular said.
According to the circular, the incoming call receiver will see names saved in the contact list, followed by the name identified by the telecom operator where the caller is registered.
The caller identity will be shown in case of a domestic call, while a phone call from overseas will be labelled as an international call.
For bulk business connections, the entity’s preferred name will be shown. The preferred name can be a trademark registered in the user’s name, as per records of the concerned government department, or the user’s trade name as registered on the goods and services portal.
For new connections, telecom operators must record the preferred name of bulk subscribers in the customer application form, subscriber data record, and supporting documents.
“For existing connections, the originating TSP shall establish an appropriate mechanism to enable the user to submit requisite application for recording its preferred name in subscriber data record, and upon examination and proper verification of such application such preferred name of such user may be updated by the originating TSP in subscriber data record,” the circular said.
Names of callers who have availed calling line identification restriction (CLIR) facility as per existing rule will not be displayed as part of CNAP service.
(PTI News)
