No More Unknown Calls: TRAI Launches CNAP to Display Aadhar Name of Incoming Callers
TRAI’s CNAP Feature Will Replace Unknown Numbers With Aadhar-Based Caller Names, A Game-Changer Against Spam, Fraud & Fake Calls
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has officially launched a feature called CNAP – Calling Name Presentation. This is a native caller identification system that will finally put an end to unknown calls in India. With CNAP enabled, your mobile phone will automatically show the Aadhar-registered name of the caller, even if the number is not saved in your contacts. This brings caller ID technology directly into the telecom infrastructure, eliminating the need for third-party apps like Truecaller.
TRAI has confirmed that CNAP has already begun rolling out across many regions and states, and telecom operators are gradually enabling support. Once fully deployed, every smartphone, Android or iOS, will show the caller’s verified name directly through the network.
What Exactly Is CNAP (Calling Name Presentation)?
CNAP is a telecom-level service that gets the caller’s verified name directly from the operator’s database. This name usually links to Aadhaar or KYC documents. When someone calls you, instead of showing just a number, your phone will display:
- Caller’s full name (as per Aadhaar/KYC)
- Phone number
- Network identifier
And the best part? Your phone’s dialer handles all this on its own, no internet, no third-party apps, no “this app is draining your battery” notification. Just a pure, in-built caller ID feature from TRAI.
Why Is CNAP Important for India?
India faces one of the highest rates of spam, fraud, and scam calls in the world. Every day, millions of users receive calls from unknown numbers claiming to be bank officials, courier services, customer care, or loan providers.
TRAI’s CNAP aims to solve this problem at the root by providing instant identity verification before you even pick up the call.
Major advantages include:
No More Spam & Fraud Calls
Caller’s verified name appears before answering, helping you instantly identify scam and suspicious calls.
More Transparency & Trust
Builds trust between callers and receivers, especially important for banking, delivery, and service communication.
Works Natively Without Any App
Fully integrated into your phone dialer with no third-party apps or personal data collection.
Avoids Hidden Telemarketing Calls
Telemarketers can no longer hide behind unknown numbers as their verified identity is displayed.
Boosts Safety for Women & Seniors
Revealing caller identity in advance reduces harassment, fraud, and impersonation risks.
Is TRAI’s CNAP Better Than Truecaller?
Truecaller mostly depends on data added by other users, which is why half the time the names are inaccurate. CNAP, on the other hand, gets details directly from official Aadhaar and KYC records. No guessing, no user edits, just the real name that’s actually registered with the number.
| Feature | Truecaller | CNAP (TRAI) |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Based on user-reported & crowdsourced data | Uses verified KYC/Aadhaar-linked data ✅ |
| Privacy | Accesses contacts & call data | Does not access contacts or personal data ✅ |
| Native Support | Requires third-party app installation | Works natively inside phone dialer ✅ |
| Advertisements | Shows ads in free version | Completely ad-free ✅ |
This makes CNAP a strong, privacy-friendly, and government-backed alternative to third-party caller ID apps like Truecaller.
Is CNAP Already Available?
Yes, it’s already rolling out. TRAI has confirmed that telecom companies have begun enabling CNAP in several parts of India, and more states are being added step by step. Once your operator switches it on, it just works. Caller names start showing up automatically, with no app update, no signup, and nothing extra to do.
That said, it’s not everywhere yet. A complete nationwide rollout will take some time, as operators are still upgrading their backend systems.
Conclusion
TRAI has taken a massive step in improving call safety and call transparency in India with CNAP. Now, people will be able to see who is calling them because the caller’s name is retrieved directly from the Aadhaar and KYC database, making it easy to answer genuine calls and avoid spam/fraud calls.
TRAI CNAP – FAQ
What is CNAP launched by TRAI?
CNAP (Calling Name Presentation) is a TRAI feature that shows the verified name of an incoming caller directly on your phone dialer.
Does CNAP show Aadhar-based caller names?
CNAP displays caller names based on telecom KYC records, which are usually linked to Aadhaar or other verified identity documents.
Is CNAP better than Truecaller?
Yes. CNAP works natively inside the dialer, uses verified telecom data, does not access contacts, and is completely ad-free.
Is CNAP available across all states in India?
CNAP rollout has started in multiple regions and states, with nationwide availability expanding gradually.
Do I need to install any app to use CNAP?
No. CNAP works directly inside your phone’s default dialer and does not require any app installation.
Is CNAP safe for privacy?
Yes. CNAP does not access contacts, call logs, or personal data. All information is handled securely by telecom operators.
Will CNAP help stop spam and fraud calls?
CNAP helps users identify suspicious calls instantly by displaying the caller’s verified name before answering.
