The FCC tightened the deadline for small carriers to begin using caller ID authentication software to combat illegal robocalls. The agency is moving up the deadline for small carriers because the agency says it has evidence that shows a subset of small voice service providers are originating an increasing quantity of illegal robocalls compared to larger carriers.
The Commission originally granted small voice service providers with 100,000 or fewer subscriber lines an extension until June 30, 2023. Now, small voice service providers that are not facilities-based will now be required to implement STIR/SHAKEN in the IP portions of their networks no later than June 30, 2022.
Under FCC rules, most large carriers are currently required to implement STIR/SHAKEN in the Internet Protocol (IP) portions of their networks. Voice providers suspected of originating illegal robocalls will also be required to implement STIR/SHAKEN within 90 days of an Enforcement Bureau determination following a summary process.
Robocalls are the number one consumer complaint to the agency. “Robocalls are not just a nuisance. They’re a way that scammers try to reach us with junk services we did not ask for, do not want, and do not need,” said FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. “What this agency needs to do is find every way we can stop these calls from getting through. [This] action does just that by requiring more providers implement STIR/SHAKEN in short order.”
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