Telecom Operators to Implement KYC Caller Names Starting November 1
From November 1, all telecom operators must display the KYC names of incoming callers as mandated by the Department of Telecommunications.
KYC names of incoming callers will be displayed starting November 1, 2026.
The Caller Name Presentation system aims to reduce spam calls and fraudulent identities.
Exemptions apply to certain high-profile individuals and users with Caller Line Identity Restriction.
In a significant move to enhance caller identification, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has mandated that all telecom operators display the Know Your Customer (KYC) names of incoming callers, effective November 1, 2026. This decision was announced in a circular issued on October 15, 2026, and aims to improve transparency in telecommunications.
The Caller Name Presentation (CNAP) system, which has been under development for several years, will allow users to see the names associated with incoming calls. Previously, telecom companies had only implemented this feature for calls made between their own subscribers. The DoT has instructed operators to ensure that their networks can support this feature without compromising call quality or user privacy, emphasizing that caller names must not be stored or misused.
The CNAP initiative was first proposed by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) in 2022, following a consultation paper that highlighted the need for better caller identification. While concerns regarding privacy were raised by various civil society groups, TRAI and the government argued that this measure is crucial for combating spam calls and preventing impersonation. The system ensures that only the recipient of the call will see the caller's identity, not the person making the call.
Telecom companies have been conducting pilot tests within their networks since 2025 to prepare for the full rollout. Notably, certain individuals, including the Prime Minister and other high-ranking officials, will be exempt from this requirement under the Caller Line Identity Restriction (CLIR) provisions. Additionally, users who obtained SIM cards as minors under a parent’s name will see their parents' names displayed, necessitating a transfer of ownership to ensure accurate identification.
The DoT's circular also emphasizes the importance of addressing user grievances related to the CNAP service. Each telecom service provider is required to implement robust mechanisms for recording and resolving complaints in a timely manner. The Central government retains the authority to issue further instructions as needed to facilitate this new system.
