Why We Can’t Change CLI!
Some of our customers especially those having virtual numbers often query from us, that when receiving the incoming call, why do they get +9179XXXXXXXX or +91265XXXXXXX number rather than the customer’s number as CLI?
The answer for that is that, though CLI Masking is technically possible, however, CLI Masking is illegal.
The actual DoT clause is as under:
“Clause 41.19 (iv): Calling Line identification (CLl) shall never be tampered as the same is also required for security purposes and any violation of this amounts to breach of security. CLl Restriction should not be normally provided to the customers. Due verification for the reason of demanding the CLlR must be done before provision of the facility. It shall be the responsibility of the service provider to work out appropriate guidelines to be followed by their staff members to prevent misuse of this facility. The subscribers having CLIR should be listed in a password protected website with their complete address and details so that authorized Government agencies can vzew or download for detection and investigation of misuse. However, CLIR must not be provided in case of bulk connections, call centres, telemarketing services. “
In fact, in a recent case of Bharti Airtel vs the Department of Telecom, the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT), passed an order fining Bharti Airtel a sum of Rs. 50 Crores for violation of this rule. Detals of the Order can be read at: http://www.tdsat.nic.in/21.10.2011/PNo.411(C)of11.pdf. Further press coverage on the same is at the below links: