TRAI Takes Major Step to Curb Misuse of URLs in Messages, Enforces Whitelisting Rule

To ensure uninterrupted SMS traffic containing URLs, TRAI has advised all registered senders to upload their whitelisted links to the portals of their respective Access Providers.

In a significant move to prevent the misuse of URLs in messages, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a directive on 20th August 2024, instructing all Access Providers to block traffic containing URLs, APKs (Android Package Kit), or OTT (Over The Top) links that have not been whitelisted. This new regulation will be enforced from 1st October 2024.

To ensure uninterrupted SMS traffic containing URLs, TRAI has advised all registered senders to upload their whitelisted links to the portals of their respective Access Providers. As of now, over 3,000 registered senders have adhered to the directive, successfully whitelisting more than 70,000 links. Senders who do not comply with the whitelisting requirement by the deadline will face restrictions on transmitting messages with URL, APK, or OTT links.

This initiative aims to protect consumers from receiving unsolicited messages with potentially harmful links and promotes a secure and transparent communication system. By adhering to these new regulations, both Access Providers and registered senders will contribute to a safer and more reliable messaging environment across India.