Introduction to Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) feature in India
A new era of call security is on the horizon for Indian mobile users. To combat the rising threat of spam and fraudulent calls, telecom operators are preparing to roll out the Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) feature. This service will display the registered name of the caller directly on the recipient’s screen, even for calls from unknown numbers, significantly enhancing user safety and transparency.
What is CNAP and How Does It Work?
The CNAP feature will fetch and display the official name submitted by a user during their SIM card KYC verification. When a call is made, this registered name will appear on the recipient’s phone screen. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has approved this proposal from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), marking a significant step towards its nationwide implementation.
Primary Goal: Curbing Cyber Fraud
The driving force behind this initiative is the alarming increase in cybercrimes, particularly scams like “Digital Arrest” and other fake calls. By revealing the identity of the caller, CNAP aims to empower users to make informed decisions about answering calls, thereby reducing the success rate of such fraudulent activities.
Rollout Timeline and Device Compatibility
Authorities are targeting a pan-India launch by March 31, 2026. Currently, the feature is being tested on a trial basis in the Haryana circle by Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea. However, due to technical limitations, the CNAP service will initially be available only on 4G and 5G smartphones. The feature also includes a privacy option, allowing users to opt-out if they do not wish their name to be displayed.
FAQs on Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) feature in India
1. What if I don’t want my name displayed when I make a call?
The CNAP system will include an opt-out facility. Users who prefer to keep their name private can disable the feature through their telecom operator’s settings.
2. Will CNAP work on all types of mobile phones?
Initially, the CNAP service will be compatible only with 4G and 5G smartphones. It will not be available on 2G or 3G network devices due to technical constraints.
3. When will CNAP be available all over India?
The Department of Telecommunications is working towards a full-scale nationwide implementation by March 2026.
Conclusion on Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) feature in India
The introduction of the Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) feature in India represents a major leap forward in telecom security. By moving away from reliance on third-party apps, this integrated solution promises to create a safer calling environment for millions, directly addressing the menace of spam and fraud calls.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. The features and rollout timeline are based on current proposals and are subject to change as per official announcements from TRAI and the Department of Telecommunications.