India to Roll Out Its Own Caller ID System to Curb Spam and Rival Truecaller

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is set to launch a new caller identification system, called Calling Name Presentation (CNAP), that will display verified caller names on mobile phones — offering a government-backed alternative to apps like Truecaller.

The CNAP system will draw information directly from telecom operators’ Know Your Customer (KYC) databases, ensuring that the caller’s registered name appears on the recipient’s screen during incoming calls. This verified approach aims to enhance transparency, curb spam and scam calls, and provide users with accurate information about who is calling.

Unlike Truecaller, which relies on user-generated data, CNAP will use official telecom records, making it more reliable and secure. The feature will work across all mobile devices, including basic phones, and will not require any third-party app installation.

TRAI has already conducted successful pilot trials across several regions, resolving technical issues related to 4G and 5G integration. While an exact rollout date has not been announced, telecom operators have begun backend preparations.

Once implemented, CNAP is expected to become one of the world’s largest verified caller ID systems, marking a major step toward safer and more transparent mobile communication in India.