DoT partners with WhatsApp to combat misuse of telecom resources for digital frauds and scams

In a move aimed at protecting citizens from rising cyber threats, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has partnered with Meta-owned WhatsApp to strengthen efforts against digital scams and misuse of telecom resources.

This collaboration extends Meta's "Scam Se Bacho" campaign and focuses on teaching people how to spot and report suspicious messages and calls.

Sanchar Saathi portal and digital intelligence platform

To support this initiative, the Department of Telecommunications, or DoT, has developed a citizen-centric platform called "Sanchar Saathi" at sancharsaathi.gov.in and through a mobile app.

The service empowers users to report suspected fraud calls and messages, keep track of their mobile connections, and block or trace lost or stolen mobile phones.

DoT's Digital Intelligence Platform, or DIP, also shares information about possible misuse of telecom resources with more than 550 organizations, including banks and law enforcement agencies.

Training workshops for greater awareness

In a significant step to enhance digital safety and awareness on the ground, the initiative will include train-the-trainer workshops for DoT officials, Sanchar Mitras, Telecom Service Providers (TSPs), and field units.

WhatsApp will also work with DoT to explore ways to build citizen-centric services for Sanchar Saathi initiatives through the WhatsApp platform for a wider reach of Sanchar Saathi.

Support from top officials

Joel Kaplan, chief global affairs officer at Meta, met with Jyotiraditya Scindia, union minister of Communications and Development of the North East Region, to review the progress of the DoT-Meta collaboration.

WhatsApp is collaborating with the Digital Intelligence Unit of DoT and using the information provided by through DIP for proactive action on the misuse of telecom resources for cybercrime and financial fraud.

"As India advances on its path of digital transformation, ensuring the safety and security of our citizens remains a top priority. Our partnership with Meta strengthens this commitment to protect our people from fraudulent communications and cyber threats. By harnessing WhatsApp's vast digital reach, we are strengthening efforts to ensure that our digital ecosystem remains secure and resilient for all," said Jyotiraditya Scindia.

"The best way to stop people falling victim to scams and online fraud is to make sure they know what to look out for and what they can do to stay safe. That's why Meta invests a great deal in technology and resources to try and stay ahead of the scammers and give people the information they need. By working with the Department of Telecommunications, we can combine our technological expertise with the government's commitment to citizen safety and help give Indians the knowledge they need to stay safe," Joel Kaplan added.

Focus on safety features

As part of the partnership, WhatsApp will also develop informative assets in collaboration with DoT to educate users on how to identify and report online scams and spam. These will cover different types of fraud, warning signs, and reporting mechanisms available on the Sanchar Saathi.

The materials will be provided in multiple regional languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Gujarati, to make sure the information reaches every corner of the country.