FCC mandates ID checks for phone service to curb robocalls
- Source
- Reclaim The Net
- Time
- 11:06 PM
- Weight
- 95/100
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has unanimously approved a proposal that would require telecommunications providers to verify a customer’s identity before activating phone service. Under this framework, users would need to provide a government-issued ID, legal name, physical address, and existing phone numbers.
The measure is intended to curb the proliferation of illegal robocalls by holding providers accountable for vetting the individuals and entities using their networks, with potential fines for non-compliance reaching up to $15,000 per illegal call. This mandate would apply to nearly all voice service providers, including traditional carriers, mobile operators, VoIP services, and prepaid phone sellers.