FCC intensifies fight against illegal robocalls with updated STIR/SHAKEN initiative

According to multiple news sources, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has recently intensified its fight against illegal robocalls with an updated STIR/SHAKEN initiative. The new rules, which went into effect on June 30, 2023, require phone companies to implement new technology that will help to verify the authenticity of calls and prevent spoofing.

According to an article by CNBC, the STIR/SHAKEN standards can help block spoofing, a common tactic used by scammers to make it appear as though their calls are coming from a legitimate source. The new rules require phone companies to implement a system that will verify the authenticity of calls before they are delivered to consumers.

The TRACED (Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence) Act, signed into law in 2019, gave the FCC new tools to fight unwanted and illegal robocalls, a top consumer complaint reported to the FCC annually. The updated STIR/SHAKEN initiative is part of the FCC’s efforts to implement the TRACED Act and crack down on illegal robocalls.

In an article by Consumer Affairs, the FCC is also tightening up the requirements for phone companies after finding loopholes in the original STIR/SHAKEN initiative. Effective immediately, phone companies must implement new technology that will ensure that all calls are properly authenticated and that spoofed calls are blocked.

The FCC’s efforts to combat illegal robocalls have been ongoing for several years, and the updated STIR/SHAKEN initiative is just one of many tools the agency uses to protect consumers. The FCC has also imposed significant fines on companies that violate robocall regulations and has worked with law enforcement agencies to bring legal action against individuals and companies that engage in illegal robocall activities.

The updated STIR/SHAKEN initiative is expected to impact the number of illegal robocalls consumers receive significantly. However, it is important for consumers to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious calls to the FCC or their phone company immediately. With the FCC’s continued efforts and the implementation of new technology, consumers can be hopeful that the days of unwanted and illegal robocalls are numbered.