Now you will be able to identify spam calls and sms

DoT is trying hard to curb telemarketing calls and Smses, which are so
rampant these days. After installation of a DO NOT CALL register by
TRAI, they are coming up with a mobile and landline number, which will
be identifiable as spam.

NOW, PEOPLE in the middle of the afternoon or night will not have to
get irritated on answering marketing calls, at least over the phone.
The Department of Telecommunication (DoT) is coming up with a
dedicated landline to mobile number series that can be used to
identify marketing calls and this would happen within a month.

According to a Telecom Ministry official, within a month customers
will not be harassed with unwanted calls and SMSs. To quote him, "The
Department of Telecom has sorted the issue to allot the number series
for landline consumers with the security agencies. Now its a matter of
another one month that consumers will get much needed relief from the
unsolicited calls and SMSes.

"

TRAI, the telecom regulator has asked DoT to come up with an
identifiable number so that these unwanted calls and SMSes can be kept
at bay. A number starting with 140 has already been allocated to the
mobile services but for the landline connection, the number is yet to
be decided. This is taking time as DoT has pointed out various billing
and technical issues with the landline numbers.

A customer can register himself under the national customer preference
register - a modified version of Trai's Do Not Call Registry list. He
can choose either an option of 'fully blocked' or 'partly blocked'.
Telemarketing companies who forward messages or calls to such
customers registered under the scheme are liable for a fine of 2.5
lakh of rupees.

A customer can register the home phone number and cellular number with
Trai's Do Not Call Registry list by calling 888-382-1222.