Egypt’s Telecom Regulator Cracks Down on Unregistered Promotional Calls, Expands Digital Payment Options
The National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA) has announced a new set of regulatory and technical measures aimed at protecting user privacy and curbing nuisance calls across Egypt’s telecom networks. The move comes as part of NTRA’s efforts to enhance transparency and give consumers greater control over their communications experience.
Among the key measures:
Caller ID for fixed-line phones: Users will now be able to identify the name of the calling party, including entities making promotional calls.
Suspension of devices misusing promotional lines: Any telephone device found repeatedly using unregistered lines to place nuisance calls will be suspended across all networks.
Enhanced caller identity: The caller ID service will be upgraded to display not only the name but also the caller’s role or profession – particularly for calls from journalists, delivery personnel, or fundraising representatives.
Permanent bans for violators: Subscribers proven to have used unregistered lines for unsolicited promotional calls will be permanently prohibited from acquiring new lines, even for personal use.
In parallel, the regulator announced the addition of new payment options via the “Telefoni” app to simplify the registration and payment process for mobile device fees (IMEI) and improve user experience. Payment can now be made via bank cards, partner bank branches, “Fawry” service outlets, telecom e-wallets, and the national “Meeza” card.
NTRA also highlighted the success of its unified short code #155#, designed to help users inquire about or cancel entertainment subscriptions. The service was used 5.4 million times in the first half of 2025, curbing the practice of enrolling users in paid services without their consent.
The regulator stressed that these initiatives are part of its broader digital transformation strategy, which aims to safeguard user rights, ensure transparent telecom practices, and align with Egypt’s national digital agenda.