DoT Directs Social Media Giants to Remove Content Violating Telecom Act
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has instructed social media platforms, including Meta, Instagram, Google, and X, to take immediate action against content or applications that facilitate violations of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
The directive follows reports of social media influencers promoting CLI spoofing, a practice that allows users to manipulate calling line identification (CLI), making a different number appear on the recipient’s screen. The Telecommunications Act strictly prohibits CLI tampering, classifying it as a punishable offence.
DoT’s Intervention in Digital Platforms
Although social media platforms typically fall under the Ministry of Electronics and IT, the DoT stepped in due to the potential misuse of telecom identifiers through content hosted on these platforms. Authorities emphasized that telecommunication identification must not be manipulated, and any entity encouraging such actions must be held accountable.
Platforms have been directed to confirm compliance with the DoT’s directive by February 28, 2025.
Legal Ramifications Under the Telecom Act
As per Section 42(3)(c) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023, tampering with telecommunication identification is strictly prohibited. Additionally, Section 42(3)(e) criminalizes acquiring SIM cards or telecom identifiers through fraudulent means such as impersonation. Section 42(7) categorizes these violations as cognizable and non-bailable offences, carrying penalties of up to three years of imprisonment, a fine of Rs 50 lakh, or both.
This directive underscores the government’s commitment to curbing telecom fraud and ensuring cybersecurity compliance across digital platforms.
Source: Business Standard
