TRAI New Spam Call Rules 2026: Block Promotional Calls with BLOCK PROMO SMS to 1909

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has introduced stricter measures to control spam calls and unwanted promotional messages. Under the revised regulations, telecom operators must take action against suspected spam callers identified by their AI-based monitoring systems, even when customers have not filed complaints.

The changes were notified under the Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference (Third Amendment) Regulations, 2026. The new framework places greater responsibility on telecom operators to identify and restrict spam communications.

How TRAI`s New Spam Detection System Works

When an operator`s AI system identifies an incoming call as suspected spam, the operator must share the details with the originating telecom network within two hours.

The originating operator must then identify the sender using KYC records and share the information with other telecom companies within one business day. Operators must also examine whether the sender has used other connections on their networks during the previous 10 days.

If five or more numbers associated with the same sender are flagged, further action can be initiated under the revised rules.

Penalties for Spam Callers

The revised regulations provide for strict action against individuals or entities found responsible for spam communications.

- First violation: All outgoing services linked to the sender will be suspended across telecom operators for 15 days.

- Repeat violations: SIM cards and business calling connections may be disconnected.

- Blacklisting: Repeat offenders may be blacklisted for one year and prevented from obtaining new connections from any telecom operator during that period.

How to Block Promotional Calls and SMS Using 1909

Mobile users who want to block promotional calls and messages across all categories can send an SMS using the prescribed keyword.

1. Open the messaging application on your phone.

2. Type BLOCK PROMO.

3. Send the SMS to 1909.

This option is intended to block promotional calls and messages. Transactional alerts, service updates and government-related messages will continue to be delivered.

Existing fully blocked preferences will be shifted to the BLOCK PROMO category within 15 days, according to the revised provisions.

What Changes for Caller ID Apps?

The new rules also restrict call management applications from tagging, blocking or filtering calls from number series officially designated by TRAI or the government for authorised communications.

However, users can continue to block or filter unwanted calls directly through their phone settings.

What Mobile Users Should Know

The revised regulations aim to reduce unwanted commercial communications by making telecom operators responsible for identifying and taking action against suspected spammers. Users can also use the 1909 facility to manage promotional communications.