Influencer’s Post Prompts DoT to Issue Advisory

The Department of Telecommunications has asked social media platforms and application hosting platforms to remove content/applications that allow or promote tampering of telecom identifiers like CLI, IP address, IMEI, etc. in contravention of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

This advisory highlights an instance where a social media influencer demonstrated how to carry out Calling Line Identification (CLI) spoofing, showing how users could change their CLI number to display a different number to the called party. The said instance seems to have prompted the Department of Telecommunications to step in even though it does not regulate online content.

Section 42 of the Act contains provisions with respect to offences. Particular emphasis is laid on Sub-section (3) of Section 42 which bars tampering with telecom identifiers, obtaining subscriber identity modules or other telecom identifiers through fraud, cheating or impersonation, etc. Punishment for these offences may extend to a three-year imprisonment, a fine of INR 50 lakh, or both.

Further, Section 42(6) prescribes punishment for the abetment of offences. Drawing attention to the said Section, the advisory states that applications allowing tampering of telecom identifiers are abetting users in committing an offence by contravening provisions of the Act. Consequently, action can be taken against entities involved in making or promoting such content/applications that aid the commitment of offence under the 2023 Act.

Social media platforms and application hosting platforms are required to follow this advisory and submit compliance by February 28.