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FCC Adopts Rules To Combat Spoofed Robocalls

From the U.S. Federal Communications Commission

For Immediate Release

FCC ADOPTS RULES TO COMBAT SPOOFED ROBOCALLS BY STRENGTHENING REQUIREMENTS FOR THIRD-PARTY AUTHENTICATION SOLUTIONS

When Utilizing a Third Party in Caller ID Authentication Process, Service Providers Are Held Accountable for Meeting STIR/SHAKEN Standards

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WASHINGTON, November 21, 2024—The Federal Communications Commission today took action to combat illegally spoofed robocalls by strengthening its caller ID authentication requirements. The Report and Order adopted today establishes rules for the use of third parties in the caller ID authentication process while setting clear limits to ensure service providers remain responsible and accountable for meeting the requirements set forth by the STIR/SHAKEN technical standards.

Scammers falsify caller ID information to deceive call recipients into believing they are trustworthy. One of the most effective tools in combating these types of robocalls is the STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication framework, which allows service providers to verify that the caller ID information transmitted with a particular call matches the caller’s number. While the Commission requires most providers to implement STIR/SHAKEN on the Internet Protocol (IP) portion of their networks, some service providers rely on third-party authentication solutions to fulfill this requirement. This raises concerns about improperly authenticated calls and diminished accountability for providers, undermining confidence in the STIR/SHAKEN framework.

Strengthening requirements for third-party authentication solutions will allow providers to realize the economic benefits and efficiencies of working with third parties on the technical aspects of caller ID authentication while maintaining the integrity of the STIR/SHAKEN framework for the protection of consumers.

The adoption of these new rules builds on the Commission’s work in recent years to steadily increase the providers that are required to implement STIR/SHAKEN. Today, nearly every provider is required to implement STIR/SHAKEN protections wherever possible in their networks. Where implementation is not possible (e.g., on portions of providers’ networks that are not IP-based), all providers are still required to take action to prevent illegal robocalls on their networks and must file robocall mitigation plans with the FCC.

Action by the Commission November 21, 2024 by Report and Order (FCC 24-120). Chairwoman Rosenworcel, Commissioners Carr, Starks, Simington, and Gomez approving. Chairwoman Rosenworcel issuing a separate statement.

WC Docket No. 17-97

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This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).

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