Robocalls Aren’t Going Away - But the FCC Is Taking Aim at a Big Vulnerability
If you've ever received a call that looked like it was from your bank or, worse, a family member, but turned out to be a scam, you're not alone. These spoofed calls continue to be a huge headache, not just for everyday people but for businesses, phone carriers, and regulators too.
The good news? The FCC is stepping up again.
Last week, the Federal Communications Commission released a new Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to close a serious gap in our defense against robocalls: non-IP networks.
Wait, What’s a Non-IP Network, and Why Does It Matter?
Most modern phone calls travel over IP (Internet Protocol) networks. These networks support tools like STIR/SHAKEN, which verify that a call is actually coming from the number that shows up on your screen. It’s like a digital stamp of authenticity.
But here’s the catch: not all parts of the phone network have made the jump to IP. Some still use older, non-IP tech (think legacy phone lines), and those segments strip out that authentication info. That’s where robocallers can still sneak in and spoof numbers undetected.
So, What Is the FCC Doing About Non-IP Infrastructure?
The FCC is now proposing that any voice provider still using non-IP infrastructure must either upgrade to IP or implement a non-IP caller ID authentication framework in their non-IP networks.
In short: no more free passes.
This is a big deal. Until now, many providers with non-IP networks have been exempt from implementing caller ID verification. If the proposed rules move forward, those days are numbered.
What Are the Solutions for Caller ID Verification?
The industry’s standards body, Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions (ATIS), has developed three frameworks for authenticating caller ID on non-IP networks:
- In-Band Authentication (ATIS-1000095)
Kind of like sneaking a note into the phone call itself. This method sends authentication data along with the call but requires agreements between providers to work. - Out-of-Band Multiple STI-CPS (ATIS-1000096)
Think of this as a side channel - the call goes one way, and the authentication info goes another (via the internet). Providers can pick it up from shared servers. - Out-of-Band Agreed STI-CPS (ATIS-1000105)
A more coordinated version where everyone in the call chain agrees to use the same server for authentication data.
Each option has its pros and cons, and the FCC is asking the public and industry experts to weigh in.
Why It Matters to Providers
For telecom providers still relying on non-IP networks, this proposal is a wake-up call. You may need to:
- Upgrade your network infrastructure to IP (if you haven’t already), or
- Adopt one of the approved non-IP frameworks, which could involve new software, vendor agreements, and even bilateral coordination with other carriers.
It’s a push toward accountability and toward a more secure phone system that consumers can actually trust.
What Happens Next?
The FCC is collecting feedback from providers, advocacy groups, and other interested parties. Comments can be submitted over the next few months. Afterward, new requirements may be finalized and a deadline established.
Mitigate Robocalls with Ribbon’s STIR/SHAKEN Solutions
Ribbon is an active participant in the STIR/SHAKEN ecosystem and is closely following this topic. We are committed to ensuring our customers can meet their regulatory requirements.
Service providers can choose between two Ribbon STIR/SHAKEN solutions: a hosted STIR/SHAKEN as a Service (S/SaaS) where Ribbon takes care of all the STIR/SHAKEN authentication, signing, verification, and certificate management services. Or they can choose the Ribbon Secure Telephone Identity (STI) solution that is deployed by service providers in their network – this solution encompasses all the components that are integral to, and required for, caller identity authentication, signing, verification, and certificate management.
Remedy your robocall situation with STIR/SHAKEN and satisfy your subscribers. Learn which Ribbon solution is right for you.
