Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)

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Context: Telecom Regulatory Authority Of India (TRAI) has ordered telecom companies to use AI filters on their voice and SMS services.

Details

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has announced to change the rules regarding these unsolicited communications from May 1, 2023.
TRAI is going to set up an AI filter to stop pesky calls and SMSs, providing a major relief to telecom customers.

Use of AI filter

The TRAI decided to set up an AI filter to block annoying calls and SMSs, which will be a huge relief for telecom users who are constantly besieged with unsolicited spam calls and SMSs.
The AI filter will assist clients in avoiding fraudulent and advertising calls.

Call Id Features

TRAI has long worked to combat fake calls and SMS, which are a major source of concern for customers.
It is one of the methods scammers use to defraud innocent customers and steal money from their accounts.
TRAI is requesting that telecom firms stop making promotional calls to 10-digit mobile numbers.
The regulatory is also looking into introducing a Call ID function that will display the caller's photo and name on the mobile phone.

What is an AI filter and how does it work?

Uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)

An AI filter is a technology that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to detect and block pesky calls and SMSs based on their content, sender, and frequency.
An AI filter can analyze the patterns and behaviours of telemarketers and identify them as unregistered or fraudulent.
It can also check the consent of the customers and their preferences for receiving promotional messages.

Coordination with the distributed ledger technology (DLT) platform

An AI filter works in coordination with the distributed ledger technology (DLT) platform that TRAI has mandated for all telecom service providers and telemarketers.
The DLT platform is a blockchain-based system that records and verifies the registration of telemarketers, their headers, and message templates.
- It also allows customers to register their preferences for receiving commercial communications.

An additional layer of protection

The AI filter will act as an additional layer of protection for customers by intelligently scrubbing the headers and message templates on the DLT platform and blocking all unverified or suspicious ones.
It will also monitor the frequency and volume of pesky calls and SMSes and take action against those who violate the norms.

Significance of AI filter for telecom customers

It will reduce the nuisance and harassment caused by pesky calls and SMSs.
It will protect the privacy and security of customers from phishing and cyber fraud.
It will enhance the customer experience and satisfaction by respecting their choices and preferences.
It will improve the quality of service and network performance by reducing congestion and spam traffic.

Conclusion

The AI filter service will be available for all telecom customers from May 1, 2023. Users do not need to do anything special to avail of this service. It will be automatically activated by the telecom service provider.
The AI filter is a welcome step by TRAI to curb the menace of pesky calls and SMSs that have been plaguing telecom customers for a long time. It is expected that this technology will make a significant difference in improving the telecom sector and customer satisfaction in India.

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Telecom Regulatory Authority of India: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/telecom-regulatory-structure-in-india

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Which of the following statements is correct about the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)?

1. It was established as a statutory body.

2. It regulates telecom services, including fixation/revision of tariffs for telecom services.

3. It is responsible for issuing licenses to telecom service providers and broadcasters.

Choose the correct code;

(A) 1 and 2 only

(B) 2 and 3 only

(D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is a statutory body that regulates telecom services and tariffs in India. It was established in 1997 through the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act of 1997.

Statement 2 is correct: TRAI's main functions are to protect the interests of consumers, ensure fair competition among service providers, promote quality of service and efficiency, and encourage innovation and investment in the telecom sector.

TRAI also oversees the implementation of various policies and regulations related to broadcasting, internet, broadband, mobile number portability, unsolicited commercial communication, emergency telecommunication, net neutrality, and more. TRAI has the power to issue recommendations, regulations, directions, and tariff orders to achieve its objectives and mandate.

Statement 3 is incorrect: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the Ministry of Communications is responsible for issuing licenses to telecom service providers and broadcasters, not TRAI. TRAI only makes recommendations on licensing matters to DoT.

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