From today, October 1, millions of mobile users may face issues while making online payments.
This is due to a new rule being implemented by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
Starting from October 1, 2024, messages containing links to OTT platforms, URLs, or APK files will be blocked.
Originally, this rule was set to take effect on September 1, but it was delayed to September 30 following requests from telecom operators and other stakeholders.
Purpose of the New Rule: Curbing Fake Calls and Messages
The main goal of this rule is to stop fake calls and messages.
Users will no longer receive messages or calls from telemarketers or organizations that are not registered with the system.
This also means that messages containing OTPs (One-Time Passwords) from banks or payment platforms that haven’t whitelisted themselves will be blocked.
Since online payments require OTPs, users may face difficulties completing transactions without receiving these codes.
Protection From Fake Calls
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and TRAI have introduced these new regulations to protect millions of mobile users in India from fake calls and messages.
Telecom operators are now required to register all companies that send OTPs or other important messages.
If a company is not registered, users will no longer receive SMS messages from them.
What Does the New TRAI Rule Say?
TRAI has instructed telecom operators to use a specific template for messages that contain critical information like OTPs or links. This is to reduce spam and fake calls.
Under this rule, messages from unregistered or non-whitelisted agencies will be blocked by the network, preventing users from receiving OTPs required for online payments.
