Headline: Telecom Industry Supports Government Action Against OTT Spam

The Indian telecom sector has welcomed the government's initiative to curb spam messages and calls originating from Over-The-Top (OTT) communication platforms. The move, spearheaded by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, aims to introduce tighter regulations for platforms like WhatsApp and Signal to prevent fraudulent activities.  

 

The Cellular Operators Association of India, representing major telecom service providers, has praised the decision, emphasizing the increasing challenges posed by spam and scam calls that bypass traditional telecom regulations. While telecom operators have already implemented measures to limit unsolicited communications, OTT platforms have remained largely unregulated in this aspect.  

 

Industry experts highlight the gap between SIM-based authentication and app-based communication, making it difficult to track fraudulent activities. The association has also voiced concerns over emerging cyber threats, including concealed malware within seemingly innocuous files.  

 

The telecom sector views a unified regulatory framework as crucial for ensuring user safety and reducing fraud across digital communication channels. The government's proactive stance indicates a policy shift, holding digital platforms accountable alongside telecom operators.  

 

Key highlights:  

 

- Strengthened oversight: Government moves to introduce stricter regulations for OTT communication platforms  

- Industry endorsement: Major telecom operators welcome the measure, citing the growing issue of unregulated spam  

- Emerging cyber risks: Fraudulent techniques such as hidden malware raise concerns  

- Regulatory balance: Industry urges equal governance of telecom and digital communication services  

- Evolving policy: Government seeks to hold OTT platforms accountable in the fight against digital fraud  

 

Sources: Zee News, Daijiworld, Medianama