FCC Launches Robocall Mitigation Database for Voice Service Providers
The Federal Communications Commission this week announced a Robocall Mitigation Database that voice service providers must use to track call authentication and ensure they are not the source of “illegal robocalls” to consumers.
The database will also be used for voice service providers to inform the FCC of their robocall mitigation efforts, according to a news release from the FCC .
“As of Sept. 28, 2021, phone companies must refuse to accept traffic from voice service providers not listed in the Robocall Mitigation Database. The new Robocall Mitigation Database includes a portal through which voice providers must file certifications regarding their efforts to stem the origination of illegal robocalls on their networks,” according to the FCC.
Creation of the database is another step in the FCC’s implementation of the Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act.
Under the TRACED Act, the FCC previously required providers with IP-based phone networks to implement the STIR/SHAKEN call authentication framework by June 30, 2021.
The STIR/SHAKEN framework allows voice service providers to confirm that the caller ID information transferred with a call is the same as the caller’s phone number, according to the FCC.
“The FCC also required voice service providers with non-IP network technology either to upgrade their non-IP networks to IP and implement these standards, or work to develop a non-IP caller ID authentication solution. Providers that received an extension of time to come into compliance with these STIR/SHAKEN obligations must adopt robocall mitigation programs,” according to the FCC news release.
Through the Robocall Mitigation Database , all voice service providers must file certifications providing detailed information regarding their implementation of the STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication framework and/or a robocall mitigation program.
Consumers may download voice service providers’ certifications. In addition, through the portal found on the database website, voice service providers may submit their certifications.
Users can find an active listing of all voice service providers that have submitted sufficient certifications by clicking “view database” or by downloading the registry.
In related news, the FCC is accepting public comments on ACA International’s petition with industry trade associations for the FCC to reconsider certain aspects of its order modifying longstanding Telephone Consumer Protection Act exemptions.
The petition for the FCC to reconsider the TCPA exemptions order will ensure that consumers are protected against unlawful calls and bad actors, have meaningful choice and control over the calls they receive, and can continue to receive time-sensitive informational communications.
