Government removes KYC flexibility for these mobile numbers; makes it mandatory to ...

The Department of Telecommunications has tightened regulations around

bulk business calls

made through mobile numbers. DoT has now removed the flexibility around Know Your Customer (KYC) norms for mobile numbers used in bulk business communications. As per the new circular, DoT has now made end-user KYC mandatory for all such connections. With this move DoT aims to improve the security and accountability in telecommunications services. In a memo dated June 16, the DoT warned

telecom operators

against offering internet telephony services for business purposes using mobile numbers without conducting proper KYC verification. The move comes after it was found that some licensees were bypassing KYC norms by claiming they applied only to cellular mobile servicesEarlier, businesses used mobile numbers with less stringent KYC for bulk calling functionality. However, as per the new directive, the businesses will now have to follow the same rigorous KYC process as any standard mobile connection. This means that the businesses involved in bulk calling will now have to provide the complete details and address proofs like any ordinary subscriber in order to complete the KYC procedure. "These licensees are claiming that the existing KYC instructions are applicable only to those licensees who are providing cellular mobile services," said DoT in a memo.

The government had previously introduced a “business connection” category to replace bulk SIMs, allowing some flexibility in cases where end users were not easily identifiable. However, misuse of this provision—particularly for mass calling and promotional activities—has prompted the DoT to enforce stricter compliance.This new regulation will particularly impact businesses that rely heavily on outbound calls for customer service, marketing, and other operational purposes.