Peru mandates 500 prefix for commercial calls and texts

Peru's Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC) has approved a supreme decree mandating the use of the '500' prefix to identify all commercial calls and text messages. This measure aims to help users distinguish advertising communications from personal calls and messages.

Under the new regulation, providers of goods and services must use a nine-digit format starting with 500. The prefix must be displayed in its entirety on the recipient's screen to ensure visibility. The use of conventional numbers, private lines, or alternative formats for advertising purposes is strictly prohibited.

Telecommunications operators have a maximum of 180 calendar days from the effective date of the decree to adapt their technical platforms and routing systems. Failure to comply with these identification and traceability rules will be classified as a very serious infraction.