How to block unwanted promotional calls in India using the TRAI DND app; here’s everything you need to know |

In the hyper-connected digital world today, unsolicited commercial communication (UCC) in the form of spam calls and promotional SMS has become a real annoyance for mobile consumers in India. Identifying the increasing issues with privacy and user control, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) came up with the Do Not Disturb (DND) app to assist users in shielding themselves from invasive telemarketing practices. Recently, the Press Information Bureau (PIB), in its Fact Check department, formally endorsed the app’s legitimacy and value, quashing skepticism due to viral promotional messages that were touting the application.

PIB confirms TRAI DND app is reliable to block or report promotional calls

With growing transmission of promotional messages sent by sender ID AD-TRAIND-G on channels such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and SMS, doubts began to be raised about their authenticity by some users. Such messages commonly contain a call to action like:”Had enough spam calls? Take control and cut them down. Report, block, or allow promotional calls with ease—download the TRAI DND App today. Google Play and App Store.”To clear the air, the PIB Fact Check team did a fact-check and established that the TRAI DND app is authentic and supported by the Government of India. This official verification gives users the guarantee that the app is a reliable mechanism for handling unwanted communication.

What is the TRAI DND app

TRAI DND app is a smartphone application created by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India to enable mobile users to track, manage, and report unsolicited commercial communication. It is downloadable free of cost from both the Google Play Store (for Android-based mobile phones) and the Apple App Store (for iOS-based mobile phones).The app acts as a direct interaction gateway between mobile consumers and telecom service providers to:

• Register complaints against unwanted calls or SMS.
• Select preferences for promotional content they are okay to receive.
• Opt out of telemarketer communication entirely by enrolling in the National Customer Preference Register (NCPR), also known as the Do Not Disturb (DND) registry.

Steps to block spam promotional calls through TRAI DND app

Step 1: Download the TRAI DND App

• Android users: Go to the Google Play Store and search for TRAI DND. Click Install to download and install the application.

• iPhone users: Go to the Apple App Store and search for TRAI DND. Click Get to download the application.

Source: Google Play

Step 2: Open the app and register

• Open the app after installation: You will be prompted to register your mobile number. The process is done through the verification of your number using an OTP (One-Time Password), which will be delivered to your phone.

Source: Google Play

Step 3: Pick your choices

• Opt-out from DND: You may opt-out totally from telemarketing calls by registering your number in the National Customer Preference Register (NCPR) or Do Not Disturb (DND) register. This keeps telemarketers from calling your number.

• Personalised preferences: Rather than blocking all calls, you can choose types of promotional calls you want to accept, like banking, education, health, etc. You will receive only those calls that fit your interests.

Source: Google Play

Step 4: Report unwanted calls/SMS

Source: Google Play

If you keep receiving unwanted telemarketing calls/spam SMS, you can report them immediately through the application.Press “Report Spam” and choose the offending call or message. Your telecom operator will receive the complaint for investigation through the app.Step 5: Monitor complaint statusThe app provides you with the status of your complaints, informing you if any action has been taken to address the problem.Monitor your preferences on a regular basis via the app to make sure you’re only getting calls and texts you desire.You can modify your preferences or submit new complaints whenever necessary.

Source: Google Play

Step 7: Update the appMake sure you’re operating the latest version of the app to enjoy any new improvements or features implemented to simplify blocking unwanted communications.

TRAI DND app: Key features and functional benefits

The DND app provides several features aimed at giving users greater control over commercial communication. Following is a close-up look at its key features:

• Easy complaint registration

Users are able to rapidly report spam SMS or calls by choosing the sender and opting for an appropriate complaint category. The complaint will be automatically routed to the user’s telecom company for investigation and action.

• Personalizable communication preferences

Rather than opting out of all promotional messages, consumers can choose preferences based on certain categories like education, banking, health, real estate, etc. This lets consumers receive only those messages that are relevant to them.Those consumers who are more comfortable with a full opt-out choice can register their mobile numbers in the Do Not Disturb registry, which keeps telemarketers legally out of their hair and away from unsolicited pitches.The app facilitates instant complaint tracking so that users are able to track their submissions and confirm if proper action has been taken.

• Data privacy and official regulation

Being a regulated tool by the government, the app keeps the data of the users in proper care. In contrast to third-party spam blockers, the TRAI DND app cooperates directly with telecom operators within authorized regulatory frameworks.

TRAI leads the charge in creating a spam-free telecom environment

The DND app is not only a tool of personal protection—it is also a key driver of a more regulated and user-friendly telecom environment. As users report the violation repeatedly, it assists TRAI and the telecom operators in the identification of repeat offenders and punitive action against them, such as blacklisting or imposing fines.By promoting use across the board, the government hopes to:

• Lessen the aggregate number of fraudulent and spam calls.
• Encourage ethical marketing practices.
• Increase the credibility of electronic communication channels.

TRAI and PIB champion public awareness to curb digital intrusions

In a measure to acknowledge the growing number of spam-related complaints, the government has launched awareness campaigns, encouraging citizens to download and utilize the app. The PIB’s public support forms part of this broader communication campaign, with the aim of promoting a cleaner, more secure telecommunication environment for everyone. By PIB’s endorsement, the government reiterates its dedication to safeguarding users against privacy invasions and commercial exploitation.Also Read | India launches e-passports with enhanced security features: All you need to know about their benefits, security and how to apply online



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