Tired of spam calls or worried about data leaks from apps like Truecaller? India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) might finally have the solution. The feature called Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) is a verified caller ID system that will prevent spam calls and phishing calls, and is already in the testing phase in certain circles
What is CNAP?
The CNAP system aims to display the verified name of the caller before you even pick up the call. Unlike third-party apps that rely on crowdsourced databases, CNAP pulls this data directly from telecom operators’ official KYC (Know Your Customer) records. That means every name displayed is backed by legitimate SIM registration details, not user-generated information.
The feature is in the beta phase in some regions of Haryana and is already functional on networks like Vodafone, Idea, and Jio.
Who can use CNAP right now?
People who are on 4G and 5G devices and connect to such networks already have everything they need to use the feature. However, 2G users still have to wait for certain upgrades. The feature is still in the pilot phase, but it is expected to roll out in March 2026.
Why CNAP matters: Three big advantages
- Fewer spam and phishing calls
Since caller names are verified through official telecom data, identifying fraudsters becomes much easier. This could drastically reduce scam and spam attempts.
- Better call Trust
Users can instantly know who’s calling, building confidence, especially for professional and business calls.
- Reduced telecom fraud
This can be one of the tools that can fight off telecom-based financial scams.
What are the benefits of using CNAP?
The CNAP feature isn’t just a random update; it represents a systemic shift in India’s telecom ecosystem. By integrating verified identity display directly at the network level, DoT is creating a more transparent experience for millions.
The feature will not make the country spam-free overnight, but in the long run, it will definitely be a good initiative to secure communication for millions.
