The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has instructed major social media platforms—including Meta, Instagram, Google, and X—to remove content or applications that assist users in committing offences under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. The directive, issued in response to concerns over caller ID manipulation (CLI spoofing), highlights the government’s push to curb digital misconduct related to telecom identification tampering.
The move follows reports that some social media influencers have been teaching users how to alter their calling line identification (CLI), allowing them to display different numbers when making calls. “Technically, this is tampering of telecommunication identification and is explicitly prohibited under the Telecommunications Act,” stated the advisory issued by the DoT.
DoT’s First Major Action Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023
Unlike the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY), which usually oversees social media regulation, the DoT has stepped in as the issue directly pertains to telecom security and legal compliance. According to sources cited by The Economic Times, the DoT believes that telecommunication identification should not be manipulated, and platforms facilitating such violations must be held accountable.
To ensure compliance, social media companies have been given a deadline of February 28 to confirm the removal of content that enables CLI spoofing or other telecom-related violations.
Legal Implications and Penalties
Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, CLI spoofing and telecom fraud are classified as cognizable and non-bailable offences, meaning law enforcement agencies can take immediate action without prior approval from the court.
The key provisions cited in the advisory include:
- Section 42 (3) (c): Prohibits tampering with telecommunication identification.
- Section 42 (3) (e): Bars acquiring telecom identifiers (such as SIM cards) through fraudulent means like impersonation or cheating.
- Section 42 (6): Specifies similar punishment for individuals abetting telecom-related offences.
- Section 42 (7): Declares violations punishable by imprisonment of up to three years, fines up to ₹50 lakh, or both.
This marks the first major enforcement action under the Telecommunications Act, which was passed in December 2023, replacing the 1885 Indian Telegraph Act. The law strengthens regulatory oversight of digital communications, cyber fraud, and telecom security.
Also read: ECI Mandates AI Content Labels for Campaigns
Growing Regulatory Focus on Digital and Telecom Compliance
The DoT’s directive signals a tighter regulatory framework for digital and telecom service providers, aligning with broader government efforts to curb online fraud and safeguard telecom integrity. With rising concerns over deepfake technology, online scams, and cyber frauds, more stringent monitoring of digital platforms is expected in the coming months.
As compliance deadlines approach, how social media platforms respond to these directives will set a precedent for future government interventions in telecom-related digital content.
