Say Goodbye to Spam Calls: CNAP Will Show Caller’s Real Name on Your Mobile

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India’s telecom landscape is about to change forever. The Central Government has approved TRAI’s recommendation to launch the Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) service, which will display the caller’s verified name along with their number—making spam and fraud calls easier to identify and avoid.

What Is CNAP and Why It Matters?

CNAP stands for Calling Name Presentation, a feature that allows mobile users to see the real name of the caller—not just the number—when receiving a call. This name is pulled from the KYC (Know Your Customer) data submitted during SIM registration.

Until now, users had to rely on third-party apps like Truecaller to guess who was calling. But CNAP will be built directly into the telecom network, offering verified and government-backed caller identification.

The Problem: Spam & Fraud Calls on the Rise

India receives billions of spam calls every year, ranging from fake bank alerts to lottery scams. These calls not only waste time but also lead to financial fraud, especially among vulnerable users.

With CNAP:

  • You’ll know who’s calling before you pick up.
  • Fraudsters will find it harder to hide behind fake identities.
  • Telecom users will feel safer and more in control.

Government’s Directive to Telecom Companies

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) have jointly agreed to roll out CNAP in phases, starting with 4G and 5G networks.

Telecom operators like Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea have been instructed to begin implementation in at least one telecom circle as a pilot. Once successful, the service will expand nationwide.

How CNAP Will Work on Your Mobile

Here’s what will happen once CNAP is active:

  • When you receive a call from an unknown number, your screen will show:
    • Caller’s phone number
    • Caller’s verified name (as per KYC)
  • You can decide whether to answer based on this info.
  • If you don’t want this feature, you can opt out by contacting your telecom provider.

What Makes CNAP Different from Truecaller?

FeatureCNAPTruecaller
Source of NameVerified KYC dataCrowdsourced or user-submitted
AccuracyHighVariable
PrivacyRegulated by TRAI & DoTThird-party app
CostFree (default for all users)Free/Premium options
Opt-out OptionYesYes

Sources: TRAI, DoT, CNBC TV18, Digit.in

Challenges in Implementation

While CNAP is a game-changer, it comes with challenges:

  • Privacy concerns: Some users may not want their names displayed.
  • Data accuracy: Names must match official documents.
  • Infrastructure upgrades: Telecom companies need to update systems to support CNAP.

To address this, TRAI has clarified that CNAP will be a supplementary service, not a core function, and users will have the freedom to opt out.

Global Context: How Other Countries Handle Caller ID

Many countries already use similar systems:

  • USA: CNAP is part of the STIR/SHAKEN protocol to prevent robocalls.
  • UK: Telecoms offer caller ID with verified business names.
  • South Korea: Government mandates caller name display for transparency.

India’s CNAP rollout aligns with global best practices in telecom safety and user protection.

When Will CNAP Launch?

The rollout is expected to begin in late 2025, starting with select regions and expanding gradually. Telecom operators are currently upgrading their systems and testing the feature.

Once live, CNAP will be enabled by default for all users on 4G and 5G networks. Users on older networks may need to upgrade their SIM or device to access the feature.

How to Prepare for CNAP

Here’s what you can do now:

  • Update your KYC: Make sure your name and details are correct with your telecom provider.
  • Check your telecom plan: CNAP will be available on 4G/5G networks.
  • Decide your preference: If you don’t want your name displayed, contact your provider to opt out.

Public Reaction & Expert Opinions

The response to CNAP has been largely positive:

  • Cybersecurity experts say it will reduce phishing and scam calls.
  • Consumer rights groups welcome the transparency.
  • Privacy advocates urge clear opt-out mechanisms.

TRAI and DoT have assured that user consent and data protection will be central to CNAP’s rollout.

Final Thoughts

CNAP is a bold and necessary step toward safer mobile communication in India. By showing the caller’s verified name, it empowers users to make informed decisions and avoid fraud. As the service rolls out, it’s important for users to stay informed, update their KYC, and understand their rights.

Say goodbye to mystery calls. Say hello to transparency. CNAP is here to change the way India answers the phone.

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