FCC to consider new rules to combat international scam robocalls

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel proposed new rules to combat international scam robocall campaigns from entering American networks through gateway providers – the on-ramps for international call traffic. This is part of the Chairwoman’s agenda to close the avenues by which robocall scammers are using gateway providers to circumvent accountability and reach American consumers.

These new, stringent compliance requirements for gateway providers will complement other FCC efforts like ending the exception to STIR/SHAKEN implementation afforded to certain small carriers and FCC demands that providers cease-and-desist from carrying illegal robocall traffic.

“We are all sick of international scam robocalls. The FCC is taking action to fight back,” said Chairwoman Rosenworcel. “International robocallers use these gateways to enter our phone networks and defraud American consumers. But no more. We won’t allow them to bypass our laws and hide from enforcement.”

The new rules, if adopted at the FCC’s May 19 Open Meeting, would require gateway providers to participate in robocall mitigation, including blocking efforts, take responsibility for illegal robocall campaigns on their networks, cooperate with FCC enforcement efforts, and quickly respond to efforts to trace illegal robocalls to their source. Under the proposed Report and Order, non-compliance by a gateway provider would result in that provider being removed from the Robocall Mitigation Database and subject to mandatory blocking by other network participants, essentially ending its ability to operate.

The FCC will also consider a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to seek comment on a requirement to expand robocall mitigation requirements for U.S.-based intermediate providers.

CT Bureau