DoT Orders Telcos to Suspend USSD-Based Call Forwarding in India

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a directive instructing telecom operators to temporarily suspend the ability to activate call forwarding using USSD codes in India. USSD codes, commonly utilized for various purposes including checking IMEI numbers, have been exploited by fraudsters for scams in the country. In response to these concerns, the DoT has mandated the suspension of USSD-based call forwarding services effective from April 15, 2024, until further notice.

The DoT’s order states, “it has been decided by the competent authority that all licensees shall discontinue the existing USSD-based call forwarding services with effect from 15.04.2024 till further notice.” Consequently, consumers will no longer be able to activate call forwarding through USSD after the specified date. Additionally, existing subscribers who have activated call forwarding via USSD will be required to re-enable the service using alternative methods.

“All existing subscribers who have activated USSD-based call forwarding service may be asked to reactivate call forwarding services through alternative methods to ensure that such services are not activated without their notice,” the order further elaborated. This temporary measure aims to prevent fraudulent activities and safeguard the interests of consumers until further updates are provided by the government.