TRAI is introducing a new number series that could make it easier for mobile users to identify genuine service calls and avoid fraud.
The new 1601 number series will be used for service and transaction-related calls from sectors such as electricity, water, gas, LPG, courier, and logistics.
Once implemented, customers will be able to recognize that calls starting with 1601 are coming from verified service providers.
The move is also expected to help reduce confusion caused by scammers using regular mobile numbers.
Why Is TRAI Introducing the 1601 Series?
Currently, many companies and service providers contact customers using normal 10-digit mobile numbers.
The problem is that fraudsters can also use similar numbers and pretend to represent a bank, electricity company, courier service, or government department.
With a dedicated 1601 series, genuine service-related calls will become easier to identify. This could help users stay more alert when they receive similar calls from ordinary mobile numbers.
Which Companies Will Get 1601 Numbers First?
TRAI plans to introduce the new number series in phases. In the first phase, the 1601 series will be available to companies in the utility, courier, and logistics sectors.
This includes electricity distribution companies, water utilities, city gas companies, LPG distributors, courier services, parcel delivery companies, express logistics firms, and freight companies.
Companies Will Have 90 Days to Migrate
Telecom operators will be required to complete the onboarding and migration of eligible companies to the 1601 number series within 90 days of the start of Phase 1.
Before assigning these numbers, telecom operators will verify the companies. This means businesses will not be able to directly obtain a 1601 number without verification.
No Promotional Calls From 1601 Numbers
TRAI has made it clear that the 1601 number series cannot be used for advertisements or promotional calls.
These numbers will only be used for important service and transaction-related communication with customers. This should make it easier for people to understand the purpose of a call.
How Will This Help Mobile Users?
Fake calls have become a major concern as scammers often pretend to be employees of electricity companies, courier firms, banks, or other service providers.
A separate number series for verified service calls can help users distinguish genuine communication from suspicious calls.
However, users should still avoid sharing OTPs, passwords, PINs, or other sensitive information over the phone unless they are certain about the caller’s identity.
