In a move to curb the misuse of links in messaging, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a directive requiring all Access Providers to block traffic containing URLs, APKs (Android Package Kits), or OTT (Over The Top) links that have not been whitelisted. This regulation, announced on August 20, 2024, is set to come into effect on October 1, 2024.
The new measure is aimed at ensuring consumer safety from unsolicited messages containing malicious links, which are increasingly being used for fraud and cyberattacks. To comply with the directive, registered senders must upload their whitelisted URL/APK/OTT links to the portal of their respective Access Providers to ensure the continued transmission of messages containing links. TRAI has reported that, to date, over 3,000 registered senders have adhered to the guidelines, successfully whitelisting more than 70,000 links.
Senders who fail to whitelist their links by the implementation deadline will no longer be able to transmit any messages containing unapproved links, effectively limiting their ability to engage in URL-based messaging services.
This initiative is a major step toward creating a secure and transparent communication environment in India, with TRAI urging prompt compliance from all parties. By doing so, both Access Providers and registered senders will play a key role in fostering a reliable and safe messaging ecosystem for consumers.
