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In order to reduce instances of tele-frauds and enhance investor protection, SEBI has advised all registered/regulated entities like mutual funds, PMS, AIFs and RIAs to only use ‘1600’ number series exclusively for all service and transactional voice calls to their existing customers based on TRAI guidelines.
The regulator said that this will make it easier for investors to identify and attend service and transactional calls from SEBI regulated entities and minimize the risk of fraud by dubious entities who use regular 10-digit phone numbers.
SEBI has also advised investors to report any Unsolicited Commercial Communication (UCC) by making a Do Not Disturb (DND) complaint through their telecom provider or the TRAI DND app.
In case of suspected fraud communication, the investors should report to Chakshu platform of Department of Telecommunications (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/) and for fraud that has already happened, investors are advised to report to cyber-crime cell using helpline number 1930 or the website (https://cybercrime.gov.in/)
