- BSNL launches anti-smishing protection nationwide
- Network-level system blocks harmful SMS links
- AI/ML engine ensures 99% fraud detection
- Default rollout secures millions of subscribers
Telecoms Step Up Against SMS Fraud
Mobile scams have rapidly emerged as a major digital security threat for telecom users worldwide. With cybercriminals exploiting SMS to trick customers, telecom firms are deploying stronger protections. In India, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has launched a nationwide anti-spam and anti-smishing system to safeguard subscribers, preventing malicious links from reaching phones.
BSNL Deploys Anti-Smishing Protection Nationwide
BSNL has rolled out a network-level security system to block harmful SMS links for all users. The system, enabled by default, detects scam messages in real time and stops malicious links before reaching subscribers’ devices.
Network-Edge Blocking, No User Action Needed
Unlike app-based solutions, BSNL’s system works directly at the network edge. It filters messages instantly, ensuring phishing links never reach customers. Legitimate communications like OTPs, banking alerts, and government notifications remain unaffected under existing TRAI DLT/UCC rules.
AI/ML Engine Powers Detection
The platform, developed with cloud communications provider Tanla, uses a multi-layered AI/ML engine. Tools include natural language processing, link reputation scoring, deep learning models, and integration with India’s blockchain-based DLT system. Together, they deliver over 99% accuracy in detecting fraudulent attempts.
Scale of Protection and Impact
BSNL reported significant daily filtering impact:
- 1.5 million+ scam attempts blocked every day
- 35,000+ unique scam links identified monthly
- 60,000+ fraudulent numbers flagged monthly
This large-scale intervention is expected to cut down cases of financial fraud, identity theft, and phishing-based attacks.
Frictionless Rollout Across India
The security system is enabled automatically for BSNL customers nationwide. Users do not need to download apps or configure devices, making the experience seamless. The service was first previewed at India Mobile Congress 2024, and now positions BSNL as a leading telecom provider in digital safety.
Strengthening Secure Mobile Communication
With rising smishing campaigns impersonating banks, e-commerce, and government services, BSNL’s initiative marks an industry-first scale-up of telecom-integrated security. By ensuring default protection for millions of users, the system sets a benchmark for safer mobile experiences in India.
About BSNL
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), under the Ministry of Communications, provides nationwide telecom services. As India’s government-owned telecom, it plays a crucial role in creating secure, indigenous, and future-ready digital infrastructure for citizens and industries alike.
Default Security for Every Subscriber
BSNL’s network-level anti-smishing rollout strengthens India’s telecom security framework. By blocking scams at the source, the company has created a frictionless, default-protection model, enhancing trust in mobile communications across the country.
As SMS fraud attempts grow, default protection could change how telecoms safeguard customers. Simple, automatic filters may ease user anxiety and protect vulnerable citizens. Over time, industry-wide adoption could help reduce cyber fraud trends and foster greater trust in India’s digital ecosystem.
