TRAI Modifies MNP Rules to Prevent SIM Swap Fraud
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has revised regulations regarding SIM porting, also known as Mobile Number Portability (MNP), in a bid to curb fraudulent SIM swap activities. Effective from July 1, users must wait seven days after a SIM swap or replacement before being eligible to port their number to a different network.
The amendment, the ninth by TRAI, is a response to concerns raised by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) regarding the increasing incidents of fraudulent porting facilitated by SIM swaps or replacements. This seven-day waiting period applies specifically to users who have lost their original SIM and requested a replacement. However, for users upgrading their SIM cards (e.g., from 3G to 4G/5G) with proper authorization through a one-time password (OTP), there are no restrictions on porting.
SIM porting, a process allowing users to switch between network providers without changing their phone number, has seen enhanced security measures since 2023. These include the mandatory transfer of Customer Application Forms (CAF) or digital CAF from the donor operator to the recipient operator, ensuring demographic details align with the user's information. Existing guidelines such as sharing a Unique Porting Code (UPC) and verification by the recipient operator, along with clearing any outstanding dues before porting, remain in place. In summary, TRAI's amendments aim to fortify SIM porting procedures to mitigate fraudulent activities, emphasizing user security and authentication measures.