What changed
RBI extended earlier Do Not Call instructions for credit card banks to all commercial banks (excluding RRBs), requiring them to engage only telemarketers with valid DoT registration. Banks must also furnish their telemarketer lists with registered phone numbers to IBA within three months from June 6, 2007, for forwarding to TRAI.
What it means for you
Banks must now vet all DSAs/DMAs for DoT registration before engagement, or risk non-compliance. The National Do Not Call Registry will scrub calling lists, reducing unsolicited calls and complaints. Non-compliant telemarketers face telecom disconnection, which could disrupt bank sales channels.
What you must do
- Verify that all engaged telemarketers (DSAs/DMAs) hold a valid DoT registration certificate.
- Compile and submit the list of telemarketers with registered telephone numbers to IBA within three months from June 6, 2007.
- Ensure telemarketers comply with TRAI's UCC Regulations and DoT guidelines to avoid service disconnection.
- Update internal policies to mandate DoT registration for all future telemarketing engagements.
Who it affects
All commercial banks (excluding RRBs), Credit card issuing banks, Telemarketers (DSAs/DMAs) engaged by banks, IBA (Indian Banks' Association)
What is the deadline for banks to submit telemarketer lists to IBA?
Banks must furnish the list within three months from June 6, 2007, the date DoT issued telemarketer guidelines.
What happens if a telemarketer lacks DoT registration?
Banks must not engage unregistered telemarketers. Non-registered telemarketers risk telecom service disconnection by their service providers.
Does this circular apply to RRBs?
No, it explicitly excludes Regional Rural Banks (RRBs).