The Indian government has launched an advanced spam-tracking system to tackle the growing threat of international calls spoofed as local Indian numbers. Within 24 hours of activation, the new system blocked approximately 1.35 crore (13.5 million) spoofed calls, accounting for 90% of the fraudulent international traffic detected. This initiative, led by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in collaboration with telecom service providers (TSPs), aims to enhance digital safety for Indian mobile users. 

Union Minister of Communications, Jyotiraditya Scindia, introduced the International Incoming Spoofed Calls Prevention System, highlighting its importance in the fight against cybercrime. He described the initiative as a step towards securing India’s digital landscape and protecting citizens from fraudulent communication tactics used by cybercriminals. 

Spoofed calls are a technique used by scammers to manipulate the calling line identity (CLI), making international calls appear with a local Indian +91 prefix. These calls have become a tool for financial scams, identity theft, and impersonation of government officials. Many victims report receiving threats related to mobile number disconnection, fake legal actions, or fabricated accusations involving drugs and other criminal activities. 

By blocking these calls at the telecom network level, the government expects a significant drop in fraudulent communication targeting Indian users. Scindia stressed that while the system is highly effective, there is still a chance that sophisticated criminals may attempt to circumvent it. Therefore, the government has urged citizens to stay vigilant and report any suspicious calls or messages using the Chakshu feature on the Sanchar Saathi platform. 

The implementation of this system reflects the government’s commitment to reducing the misuse of telecommunications for cyber fraud. It builds upon other recent initiatives by the DoT to protect telecom subscribers from phishing attempts, financial scams, and identity fraud. 

Scindia emphasized the need for continuous efforts to adapt to evolving cyber threats and encouraged telecom operators to ensure the system's smooth functioning. He called the initiative a “milestone” in the government’s mission to foster a secure and trustworthy digital ecosystem. 

With the new system in place, Indian telecom users can expect fewer fraudulent calls disguised as local numbers. The government’s proactive approach aims to not only block spoofed international calls but also raise awareness among citizens about cyber threats and available reporting mechanisms. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to curb cybercrime, securing the growing number of users dependent on mobile and internet-based communications in India.