How to File a Complaint if a Mobile Service Provider Continues to Call despite Do Not Disturb (DND) Activation

If you've ever had a mobile service provider continue to call you with exciting offers despite your DND (Do Not Disturb) setting being enabled, you've likely felt frustrated and unsure of how to proceed. This guide will walk you through the steps of filing a complaint to resolve this issue.

Understanding Your Options for Filing a Complaint

When dealing with a mobile service provider that continues to call you despite having DND enabled, you have several avenues to pursue:

Option 1: Use UCC or TRAI Directly

You can file a complaint directly through the Unified Consumer Complaint Redressal (UCC) portal or with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). These organizations have mechanisms in place to address customer complaints effectively.

For filing a complaint via UCC:

Go to the official UCC website. Register your complaint following the guided process. Confirm the submission and keep a record of the complaint reference number.

For filing a complaint with TRAI:

Visit TRAI’s official website. Locate the complaint registration section. Provide the required details and submit your complaint.

Option 2: Contact Your Service Provider

Your mobile service provider also has a role in resolving these issues. You can contact your telecom operator’s customer service department and escalate your concerns. They will likely guide you through the necessary steps to address the problem.

Using the Virtual Inspector (Vi) App for Complaints

If you use the Vi app, the process is streamlined. Here’s how to file a complaint:

Open the Vi app and go to “My Account.” Scroll down to the DND section. Select “Getting alerts even after opting DND.” Fill out the complaint form provided. Submit the complaint and reach out to them for further action.

Once submitted, they will contact you within a specified timeframe, typically between 7 to 14 business days, to resolve the issue. Be prepared to provide more details about the problem during the follow-up call.

Other Methods to Stop Unwanted Calls

While filing a complaint, you can also try other methods to stop unwanted calls from specific companies. For instance:

Search for the website related to the company that’s calling you. Most banks and other organizations offer a Do Not Call (DNC) option on their official websites. Follow the instructions to opt out of receiving promotional calls. After a day, you should receive a confirmation message that your request has been processed.

For instance, to stop promotional calls from HDFC Bank, you can Google “Do not call HDFC Bank” and find the website where you can register your request. Similar steps apply to other companies.

Further Assistance and Official Forums

If the above steps do not resolve your issue or if you are not satisfied with the service, you can consider filing a complaint through other official platforms:

Voxya - An Online Complaint Forum

If you are seeking a quicker resolution, you can try Voxya, an online complaint forum in India. More than 7,000 consumers have successfully used this platform to resolve their complaints with optimal solutions.

To file a complaint on Voxya:

Visit the Voxya website. Register your complaint by providing your details and the relevant information. Track the status of your complaint and follow up as necessary.

Escalating to Nodal Office or Appellate Officer

Before approaching TRAI, you can escalate your concerns to the nodal office or appellate officer of your telecom service provider. This step helps in ensuring a thorough review of your complaint.

Legal Recourse and Disclaimer

If your issue remains unresolved, you may need to consider legal avenues. TRAI and the Department of Telecommunications provide guidelines for filing consumer complaints. Here are some key points to consider:

Read up on the process and procedures for filing a complaint with TRAI. Understand the timeframes and documentation required for your complaint. Seek legal advice if the issue is critical and you believe you have a valid claim.

It is important to act promptly as there are time limits for bringing claims. Consulting a licensed attorney can provide you with the best advice tailored to your specific situation.

Note: This guide is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional legal advice. If you need further assistance or have additional questions, feel free to reach out for clarification.