• Source:JND
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The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has dismissed rumours about potential delays in one-time password (OTP) deliveries due to its new message traceability mandate. The regulator clarified that these measures aim to enhance security against spam without disrupting essential services.

Recently, posts on social media and reports in some news outlets suggested that from December 1, 2024, some users might experience delays in OTP delivery due to TRAI’s new traceability requirements. These reports sparked concerns that critical processes like online banking and identity verification could face significant disruptions.

In an official post on X (formerly Twitter), TRAI quickly addressed these concerns, calling the claims “factually incorrect.” The regulator emphasized that the new traceability guidelines would not impact OTP delivery service. TRAI assured the public that:
“TRAI has mandated access providers to ensure message traceability. This will not cause delays in message delivery,” the TRAI clarified.

What Are the New Rules About?

The new message traceability rules require telecom operators to track the origin and delivery of all messages, including promotional and transactional texts. The goal is to combat spam and fraudulent messages that often disrupt users’ daily lives.

Timeline for Implementation:  The initial rollout deadline of November 1, 2024, was extended to November 30, 2024, to ensure smooth adoption by telecom operators and businesses.

No Service Disruptions:  TRAI confirmed that telecom providers have already set up the required systems and infrastructure to comply with the guidelines without affecting essential services like OTPs.

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Fewer Spam Messages

The traceability initiative is part of TRAI’s broader efforts to enhance cybersecurity and reduce spam. Earlier this year, the regulator introduced strict penalties for unauthorized promotional calls and messages, including blacklisting offenders for up to two years.

These measures are already showing results—complaints about spam calls dropped by 20% between August and October 2024, according to TRAI.

What Does This Mean for Users?

For the average user, these new regulations mean:

- No Delays in OTPs:  You can continue relying on quick OTP delivery for banking, Aadhaar verification, and other essential services.

- Better Security: Messaging systems will be more secure, reducing spam and the risk of fraudulent texts.


The rumours of OTP delays due to TRAI’s new rules are unfounded. The regulatory body is focused on making digital communication safer without compromising convenience. Users can rest assured that these measures will enhance security without disrupting essential services.

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TRAI confirmed that access providers have already deployed the necessary infrastructure to comply with the guidelines. The additional time was granted to ensure a smooth transition without affecting critical services. The telecom regulator also reassured the public that these measures would not compromise the speed or reliability of OTP-based transactions.

Notably, TRAI’s message traceability guidelines are part of a series of recent initiatives aimed at enhancing cybersecurity and reducing spam. Earlier this year, TRAI introduced penalties for unauthorised promotional calls, including the disconnection of telecom resources and blacklisting offenders for up to two years. In fact, according to TRAI, these measures have shown significant results, with complaints about spam calls decreasing by 20 per cent between August and October 2024.