Government Tightens KYC Rules for Bulk Business Mobile Numbers, Makes End-User Verification Mandatory
DoT makes end-user KYC mandatory for all bulk business mobile numbers, tightening rules to boost security and prevent misuse in telecom services.
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The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has removed KYC flexibility for mobile numbers used in bulk business calls, making end-user KYC mandatory for all such connections. This new regulation aims to boost security and accountability in telecom services.
According to a June 16 DoT memo, telecom operators are prohibited from providing internet telephony services for business purposes without proper KYC verification. The directive comes after some operators were found bypassing KYC norms by claiming these rules only applied to cellular mobile services.
Previously, businesses could use mobile numbers with relaxed KYC requirements for bulk calling. However, the updated guidelines require businesses to complete full KYC—submitting detailed identification and address proof—just like regular mobile subscribers.
The government had introduced a “business connection” category to replace bulk SIMs, offering some leniency when end-users were hard to identify. But misuse of this provision for mass calling and promotions has led the DoT to enforce stricter rules.
This move will significantly affect businesses relying on outbound calls for marketing, customer service, and other operations, ensuring greater transparency and compliance in bulk telephony services.