CNAP: Caller Names on Your Phone

Unknown calls could soon become easier to identify in India.

The Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) system is designed to display a caller’s KYC-verified name alongside their phone number, even when the number is not saved in your contacts.

Unlike third-party caller-identification apps, CNAP uses the subscriber information held by telecom operators.

The name displayed comes from the customer’s KYC and Customer Acquisition Form records. This could make it harder for scammers and spam callers to hide behind unfamiliar numbers.

The system is being introduced through telecom networks rather than a separate app. It is expected to work across compatible networks as operators expand the rollout.

Initially, newer 4G and 5G networks are better positioned to support the technology, while older networks may follow based on technical feasibility.

CNAP is intended to be enabled by default, while subscribers will have the option to opt out.

If you do not want your registered name displayed when making calls, you can contact your telecom operator through its customer-care service, official app or service centre.

Subscribers seeking stronger privacy can also ask their operator about Calling Line Identification Restriction. This setting hides the caller’s number and consequently prevents the associated name from being displayed.

However, CNAP is not a complete solution to spam. It does not automatically block unwanted calls.

It mainly gives users additional information before they answer. Spam-blocking features and other telecom protections will still play an important role.

There are also limitations. The displayed name depends on the accuracy of the operator’s KYC records.

During the phased rollout, some calls may not display names, particularly across unsupported networks.

CNAP could make everyday calling more transparent.

By connecting phone numbers with verified subscriber identities, it gives people another tool to distinguish legitimate calls from suspicious ones while retaining an option for those who prioritise privacy.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image published on March 08, 2017

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1052628