TRAI’s Latest MNP Amendments to Address SIM Swap Fraud Begin July 1
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The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) announced that amendments to the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) regulations aimed at curbing SIM swap and replacement frauds will come into effect on July 1, 2024. Issued on March 14, 2024, the Telecommunication Mobile Number Portability (Ninth Amendment) Regulations, 2024 introduce a new criterion for rejecting the generation of the Unique Porting Code (UPC), which is necessary for porting a SIM card to a different telecom provider. The amendment stipulates that a UPC request will be denied if it is made within seven days of a SIM swap or replacement, a measure designed to prevent fraudulent activities involving recent SIM changes.
TRAI’s move follows consultations with stakeholders and aims to address the increasing instances of fraud related to mobile number porting. The new regulation will require modifications to telecommunication systems and processes, including testing scenarios to ensure a smooth, nationwide implementation. This regulatory change is part of TRAI’s ongoing efforts to protect consumers from fraudulent practices in the telecom sector.