Nilanjan
The TAFCOP portal, initiated by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India, empowers users to monitor and manage the number of mobile connections linked to their name. TAFCOP, short for Telecom Analytics for Fraud Management and Consumer Protection, serves as a tool to combat fraud in the telecom sector. Its objective is to address complaints related to unsolicited commercial communications. The Digital Intelligence Unit, established by the Indian government, collaborates with financial institutions and telecom companies to investigate telecommunications fraud. Through TAFCOP, customers can verify their registered mobile connections and promptly address any unauthorized or excessive connections. To enhance consumer protection, the portal sends SMS notifications to users exceeding the allowed nine active mobile connections, as per DoT regulations.
TAFCOP DGTELECOM Portal Highlights:
- Name: TAFCOP
- Full-Form: Telecom Analytics For Fraud Management & Consumer Protection
- Introduced by: Department of Telecommunications (DOT)
- Beneficiaries: TAFCOP Registered Connection and Telecom Subscribers
- Benefits: Reduction in Fraud
- New Official Website: Sancharsaathi.gov.in
TAFCOP Portal Objectives:
- Verification Assistance: Helps subscribers and SIM card users verify the number of active mobile connections linked to their name.
- Connection Regularization: Supports users in regularizing any additional connections they may have, with service providers managing the Customer Acquisition Form (CAF).
Importance of TAFCOP:
Identity Protection: Crucial in preventing identity theft and fraud, safeguarding consumers from potential risks.
Fraud Detection and Prevention:
- SIM Swap Fraud: Detects instances where someone uses a fake SIM card with your number for unauthorized access.
- Fraud Call Forwarding: Identifies unauthorized call forwarding, preventing additional fees and unauthorized access.
- Fraud International Roaming: This plays a vital role in identifying situations where someone activates international roaming on your number without permission.
- Fraud using Fake KYC: Helps uncover instances where someone uses your identity documents for illicit purposes in obtaining a mobile connection.
Proactive Monitoring: Enables users to proactively check for signs of fraudulent activity in their mobile connections.
Prompt Reporting: Encourages users to notify their service provider or the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) promptly upon detecting any suspicious activity.
TAFCOP: Reducing Fraud and Enhancing Digital Trust
Lowering Rates of Fraud and Cybercrime:
- Identity Protection: TAFCOP prevents identity theft and fraud by minimizing unauthorized access to SIM cards.
- Collaboration for Investigation: Working with law enforcement, financial institutions, and telecom providers helps investigate and curb fraud related to telecom resources.
Accessing the TAFCOP Portal:
- Official Website: Visit Sancharsaathi.gov.in to access the TAFCOP portal.
- Reducing SIM Access Fraud: The portal aims to lessen unauthorized SIM access telecom frauds, enhancing security for users.
Steps to Check Registered Connections:
- Visit the TAFCOP official website: Sancharsaathi.gov.in.
- Enter your mobile number and click “Request OTP.”
- Verify with the received OTP to see your registered connections.
Procedure to Login on the Portal:
- Go to Sancharsaathi.gov.in.
- Click “Login” and enter your User ID, Password, and captcha code.
- Login to your registered account for access.
Guidelines for Verifying New Mobile Subscribers:
- Ensure the Customer Acquisition Form (CAF) is correctly filled with a photo, proof of identity, and proof of address.
- Confirm transaction details, match customer photo with original documents, and activate the SIM after proper verification.
Checking Mobile Number Linkage to Aadhaar:
- Visit the UIDAI official website: Uidai.gov.in.
- Enter the Aadhaar number, mobile number, and captcha code.
- Click “Send OTP” to receive and verify the OTP for mobile-Aadhaar linkage.
Procedure to Link Mobile Number with Aadhaar:
- Obtain the Aadhaar update form, fill it with necessary information, and submit it at the Aadhaar Centre for verification.
- Alternatively, visit the telecom service provider’s store with an Aadhaar and mobile number for biometric authentication.
- Complete the process by submitting the received OTP after successful verification.
