Industry Seeks Consent Framework for Spam Control, AI as Support
Telecom industry participants urged India's TRAI to prioritize a consent framework and use AI as an advisory tool, not a primary decision-maker, in combating spam.
Industry representatives, speaking at a MediaNama roundtable on AI's impact on spam prevention held on August 12 in New Delhi, outlined their key demands for India's Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
The foremost wish expressed was the earliest possible implementation of a consent framework. Participants highlighted that this system would align consumer and business interests and bring structure to the market. They also stressed that AI should serve as a signal or support mechanism for decisions, particularly punitive ones, rather than being the sole basis for action.
Discussions also centered on addressing the root causes of spam rather than just improving detection methods. While AI can help identify spam, the underlying structural issues that allow it to originate need more direct attention. Companies also advocated for the liberty to develop their own spam-filtering models without excessive restrictions.
Furthermore, speakers called for TRAI to foster collaboration among industry players instead of mandating specific approaches. Consumers should have greater control over deciding which messages they wish to receive. The need for a clearer distinction between spam and scams in regulations was also raised, alongside a call for easier and more cost-effective access to compliance systems for small businesses. Protection should also extend to messaging platforms like WhatsApp and RCS.