#BSNL #NetworkSecurity #AntiSpam #AntiSmishing #MobileSecurity #TelecomSecurity #DigitalSafety #PhishingProtection #IndiaTelecom #Tanla #SecureConnectivity #DLT #CyberSecurity
New Delhi — Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has announced the nationwide launch of its network-side Anti-Spam and Anti-Smishing protection for mobile customers, marking a significant step in securing India’s telecom ecosystem. The initiative ensures that suspicious and phishing URLs embedded in SMS messages are detected in real time and blocked before they ever reach the recipient’s phone.
The move reflects BSNL’s commitment to delivering a “safe, secure, and always connected” experience without requiring customers to install additional apps or change device settings. The protective measure runs automatically in the background, safeguarding users against one of the most common vectors for credential theft and payment fraud.
No Extra Steps for Users, Maximum Protection
Under the new system, every incoming SMS is scanned at the network edge. Malicious links are withheld, while legitimate communications — including OTPs, banking alerts, and government notifications — continue to flow without interruption under the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) DLT/UCC framework.
The system has been in preview since the India Mobile Congress 2024, where it drew attention for its ability to neutralize fraudulent campaigns in real time. Following successful trials, BSNL is now extending the feature to all circles in a phased manner as part of its ongoing network upgrades.
Powered by AI, Backed by Industry Collaboration
BSNL has partnered with Tanla, a leading India-based cloud communications platform, to deploy the Anti-Spam solution. The technology stack integrates multiple layers of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), along with Natural Language Processing (NLP) and reputation intelligence systems.
The anti-smishing platform operates in conjunction with the industry’s blockchain-based DLT registry, already adopted by Indian telecom operators to combat unsolicited commercial communication. This synergy ensures end-to-end tracking, authentication, and filtering of messages.
According to BSNL, the technology has been recognized for achieving over 99% efficacy in detecting and stopping smishing attempts. It also includes ecosystem integrations with major web and messaging platforms, enabling quick takedown of malicious campaigns as they emerge.
High-Volume Threat Detection at National Scale
The scale of the operation is substantial. BSNL’s network-level security framework is capable of processing billions of messages while identifying scams with minimal latency.
Key operational highlights include:
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Detection of over 1.5 million scams daily.
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Identification of 35,000+ unique fraudulent links every month.
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Flagging of 60,000 scam-related WhatsApp and mobile numbers monthly.
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Processing powered by four proprietary AI/ML engines, NLP modules, and deep learning algorithms.
These figures underscore the vast and persistent nature of the phishing and fraud ecosystem — and the necessity of a proactive, automated defence mechanism.
Always-On Protection for All BSNL Mobile Customers
BSNL has confirmed that the protection is enabled by default for all mobile subscribers in live service areas. Customers do not need to opt in, download software, or change phone settings.
By intervening before harmful links reach end-users, BSNL’s system significantly reduces the likelihood of:
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Theft of personal or banking credentials.
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Unauthorized financial transactions.
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Malware installation via malicious websites.
An Industry-First Step in Customer Security
Telecom security experts note that while anti-spam and anti-smishing apps exist in the market, they require user action, device compatibility, and regular updates. BSNL’s network-side approach removes these barriers by shifting the protection layer to the core telecom infrastructure itself.
“Phishing via SMS remains one of the most effective tools for fraudsters, especially when disguised as messages from banks, e-commerce sites, or government agencies,” a BSNL spokesperson said. “By blocking such messages at the network level, we’re not just informing customers of potential threats — we’re preventing those threats from ever reaching them.”
Part of BSNL’s Digital and Security Modernization Drive
The Anti-Spam rollout is part of BSNL’s broader modernization plan, which includes 4G and 5G upgrades, fibre-to-the-home expansion, and enterprise service enhancements. By integrating security measures at the network layer, BSNL is aligning with the government’s Digital India vision and reinforcing trust in digital communications.
Given the growing volume of mobile-based transactions, remote work, and online interactions, securing the telecom channel has become a national priority. Industry observers believe BSNL’s approach will set a benchmark for other operators in India and abroad.
Availability: The Anti-Spam and Anti-Smishing protection is currently live in multiple BSNL circles and will reach nationwide coverage as cutovers are completed in the coming weeks.
Customers can continue to report suspected fraudulent messages through BSNL’s customer care channels. For assistance, BSNL’s helpline number 1800-180-1503 is available.
With this move, BSNL aims to give its mobile users not just connectivity, but a shield against one of the fastest-growing cyber threats — ensuring that in the era of instant communication, security travels at the same speed as the message itself.
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#BSNL #NetworkSecurity #AntiSpam #AntiSmishing #MobileSecurity #TelecomSecurity #DigitalSafety #PhishingProtection #IndiaTelecom #Tanla #SecureConnectivity #DLT #CyberSecurity #FraudPrevention #SafeDigitalIndia
