Indian mobile users on Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone Idea will soon be able to identify callers from unknown numbers through a new service called Calling Name Presentation (CNAP). The feature is designed to display the verified name of the caller on the recipient’s mobile screen, helping users decide whether to answer incoming calls.
CNAP works by linking a mobile number to the name registered with the telecom operator. When a call is placed, the recipient’s network retrieves the caller’s name from a centralised database and displays it in real time. Unlike third-party caller identification apps, CNAP is network-based, meaning it does not rely on crowd-sourced data and is expected to provide more accurate information.
The introduction of CNAP comes amid growing concerns over spam calls, financial fraud, and identity misuse. Millions of users in India receive unsolicited calls daily, many of which are linked to scams or misleading offers. By revealing the caller’s identity before the call is answered, CNAP aims to reduce the success rate of such activities and give users greater control over their communications.
Telecom operators are implementing the service in coordination with regulatory guidelines. The rollout is expected to take place in phases, beginning with selected regions and gradually expanding nationwide. Users may need compatible smartphones and updated network settings to access the feature fully.
According to industry sources, the caller name displayed under CNAP will be based on official records such as customer application forms and verified business registrations. For individual users, the name will reflect what is registered with the telecom operator, while for businesses, it may display the registered company name. Operators are expected to provide customers with options to update or correct their registered names to avoid inaccuracies.
Privacy safeguards are also being built into the system. CNAP is designed to display only the caller’s name without sharing additional personal details. Telecom authorities have stated that the service will comply with data protection norms and will not expose sensitive customer information.
The feature is similar to caller name identification systems used in several other countries, where network-level verification has proven effective in reducing fraud. In India, CNAP is expected to complement existing measures such as spam reporting, do-not-disturb services, and AI-based call filtering.
Consumer groups have welcomed the move, stating that it could significantly improve user trust in voice calls, especially as digital fraud cases continue to rise. However, experts also caution that accurate implementation and regular database updates will be essential for the system’s effectiveness.
Once fully implemented, CNAP is likely to change how users handle incoming calls, making it easier to avoid unwanted communication and respond confidently to legitimate callers. Telecom operators are expected to share further details on availability, device compatibility, and timelines in the coming months.
