The Department of Telecom (DOT) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB) are working together on the final mobile number portability (MNP) guidelines to ensure seamless tracking of mobile numbers by security agencies.
MNP is a service which when implemented will allow users to change their mobile operator while retaining the same number.
Earlier, security agencies had raised concerns that how phone numbers that were under surveillance could be monitored if subscribers change their service providers.
To address the issue, the DoT had held a meeting with all service providers to finalise the process of sending directions for interception of messages by law enforcement agencies even after porting of numbers by subscribers.
Following the discussion, the operators have unanimously agreed that service providers would inform the law enforcement agencies before porting a number. The DoT has prepared a draft and submitted it to the IB for its approval.
Besides, security agencies would also inform the new operator to which the customer is moving so that the surveillance and monitoring mechanism is transferred seamlessly between the two telcos.
The majority of service providers were in favour of electronic communication between security agencies and service providers using dedicated leased lines for matters related to Lawful Interception and Monitoring.
However, they wanted that the cost of implementing the electronic communication system that is the cost of setting of leased lines between the Nodal Officers and LEAs should be borne by the DoT.
In case, this solution is implemented then the total time frame of four days laid down by Trai for porting process can be met.
It was felt that this option will require additional time for overall proting for as it involves sending the communication from Nodal officer to the LEAs.
In that case, seven working days would be required for customers to change their cellular operator when number portability is implemented instead of four days.
