Register on TRAI DND and stop spam calls
Once you're on the Do Not Disturb register, commercial callers are legally barred from contacting you. Here's how to register, how to block per operator, and what to do when DND fails.
Step 1 — Register on TRAI DND
SMS START 0 to 1909 from the number you want to register. This blocks all commercial categories. You'll receive a confirmation within 24 hours and the registration takes effect within 7 days.
To block only specific categories (banking, real estate, education, etc.) send START followed by the category code list. Full list at trai.gov.in.
Step 2 — Use the DND 2.0 app
Install DND 2.0 (TRAI's official app) on Android or iOS. The app lets you report any unwanted call or SMS in one tap — much faster than the SMS-to-1909 method.
Per-operator quick steps
Jio
- Open MyJio → Settings → Service Settings → Do Not Disturb.
- Toggle on, pick categories, save.
Airtel
- Open Airtel Thanks → Help → DND.
- Or SMS
START 0to1909.
Vi (Vodafone Idea)
- Open Vi app → Profile → DND Activation.
BSNL
- Dial
1909from your BSNL number and follow the IVR.
When DND doesn't work
Scammers often spoof unregistered numbers — DND can't stop those. If you still get spam:
- Forward the SMS to 1909.
- File a report on the Chakshu portal at sancharsaathi.gov.in.
- Block the number on your phone and report it on PhoneLookup so others see the warning.
The reality about DND
DND only stops registered telemarketers. It does not stop scam calls, robocalls from unregistered SIMs, or international spoofed numbers. For those you need a call-screening app and the discipline to never answer unknown numbers.