As online fraud incidents continue to escalate, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is taking proactive measures to address the issue. One such step involves the suspension of USSD-based call forwarding services across the country, following concerns over fraudulent activities facilitated through this feature.

Vulnerabilities in the Existing USSD System

Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) enables users to access various services on their devices by dialling specific codes. This includes functionalities like balance checking, device information retrieval, and call forwarding. However, the DoT has identified vulnerabilities in the USSD-based call forwarding system, prompting the decision to suspend this service effective April 15, 2024.

Presently, users can initiate call forwarding by dialling the USSD code *401#. While this method offers convenience, it has been deemed susceptible to misuse, necessitating its discontinuation.

Suspension Directive and Future Prospects

The DoT issued an order on March 28 instructing all licensees to cease USSD-based call forwarding services until further notice. However, the directive implies a temporary suspension rather than a permanent cessation, leading experts to speculate on potential future revisions aimed at enhancing security measures.

User Obligations and Reactivation Process

Existing users with active call forwarding services will need to reactivate them once the suspension takes effect. The DoT has stipulated that users must activate call forwarding through alternative methods, although specific procedures have not been delineated.

Anticipated Activation Methods

Telecom operators are expected to collaborate with the DoT to introduce alternative mechanisms for call forwarding activation. This could involve leveraging the operators’ applications or establishing a dedicated toll-free number for reactivation purposes.

Outlook for Users

In the forthcoming days, users can anticipate further updates regarding the reinstatement of call forwarding services and the procedures for reactivation. As telecommunications stakeholders work towards implementing more secure protocols, users are encouraged to stay informed about forthcoming developments in this regard.