The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has issued a new advisory, urging people to report spam calls and messages using its official DND app, and reminding users that simply blocking numbers on a personal phone doesn't solve the core issue. According to the advisory, blocking only conceals the nuisance on one’s device, while the spammer keeps targeting thousands of others with new or recycled numbers.

According to the PIB press release, over the past year, Trai states it has taken action on citizen complaints filed through the DND app to disconnect and blacklisting more than 21 lakh mobile numbers and nearly one lakh entities involved in sending fraudulent or unsolicited messages. The report indicates that every disconnection was initiated by a user report, demonstrating that public participation remains the most effective tool in combating telecom misuse.

Officials explained that when a user reports a spam call or message on the Trai DND app, the system enables Trai and telecom operators to trace the source, verify misuse, and permanently block access for the offender. According to the PIB press release, this back-end investigation is only possible when complaints are logged through official channels. In contrast, when a number is blocked on the handset, the incident remains hidden from regulators, allowing scammers to continue operating unchecked.

In its latest public advisory, Trai has urged people to download the DND app from official app stores and use it to report spam instead of relying on phone-level blocking. According to the report, users should avoid sharing personal or banking information with any unknown caller or message sender and must disconnect immediately if they receive threatening or suspicious communication, as stated in the press release.

The Authority has also advised citizens to report cyber frauds promptly to the National Cybercrime Helpline at 1930 or via the government’s online portal. The report states that attempted frauds or scams involving misuse of telecom services can also be reported on Sanchar Saathi using the “Chakshu” feature, which helps detect early signs of fraudulent activity.

Trai said it remains committed to creating a safe and trustworthy telecom environment for everyone in the country. According to the report, the ongoing crackdown on spam is supported by technology-based monitoring systems, stronger enforcement measures against offenders, and the increasing number of citizens actively reporting suspicious calls and messages.

The Authority has urged people—especially senior citizens, women, and those new to digital services—to stay alert and share this advisory widely so others can protect themselves. According to the report, timely reporting through the Trai DND app will continue to be vital as India aims to stop spam at the source rather than merely hiding it on individual devices, as stated in the press release.