The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has implemented new guidelines for mobile number portability (MNP) effective from July 1, aimed at reducing SIM swap fraud. Under these rules, users who acquire a new SIM card due to theft or damage cannot port their number to another SIM card within the next 7 days. This move comes as a response to the increasing instances of fraudulent SIM swapping.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) suggested these changes, and after consulting with various stakeholders, TRAI finalized the new regulations. TRAI aims to curb the practice of fraudulent SIM swap or replacement by unscrupulous elements. Additionally, telecom operators are now forbidden from issuing a “unique porting code” (UPC) before the expiration of seven days after a SIM swap or replacement.
These changes highlight TRAI’s commitment to enhancing security and reducing fraudulent activities in the mobile telecommunication sector. Users should ensure they comply with these new guidelines to avoid any issues with mobile number portability.
