Nationwide Crackdown on Robocalls Issues Warnings to Persistent Callers
In a significant move to combat the persistent problem of robocalls, a coalition of 51 attorneys general have launched Operation Robocall Roundup. This nationwide operation aims to provide solutions to the nationwide issue of robocalls by targeting voice service providers who have failed to comply with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules [1][2][3].
The operation has identified 37 providers who are accused of allowing robocalls onto their phone networks and passing them to downstream providers. These providers have allegedly violated FCC rules by failing to register in the FCC’s Robocall Mitigation Database, not filing plans to reduce illegal robocalls, and not responding to government traceback requests [1][2][3].
The FCC has taken strict action against these non-compliant providers. Penalties for noncompliance can be severe, including substantial civil fines, operational restrictions, and even license revocations. For instance, one case involved a $5 million civil penalty and a prohibition from industry operations [2][5]. The FCC has also removed some noncompliant providers from its Mitigation Database to prevent others from routing calls through them [1].
In addition to targeting the 37 identified providers, Operation Robocall Roundup also aims to notify more than 99 downstream providers that accept call traffic from these companies. The goal is to make these downstream providers aware they’re doing business with companies that do not follow the rules [1][2][3][4][5].
California Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasised the importance of this operation, stating that robocalls can facilitate scams, cause financial losses, and disrupt communication [6]. Operation Robocall Roundup was launched nationwide this week.
The FCC encourages consumer vigilance and reporting to aid enforcement. If you suspect a robocall, you are advised to report it to the FCC or your state attorney general's office. Together, we can help put an end to the nuisance of robocalls.
References:
[1] FCC. (2022). FCC Takes Action Against Voice Service Providers for Failing to Comply with Robocall Mitigation Rules. Retrieved from https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-takes-action-against-voice-service-providers-failing-comply-robocall-mitigation-rules
[2] NPR. (2022). Feds Crack Down On Companies That Allow Robocalls. Retrieved from https://www.npr.org/2022/03/31/1089727394/feds-crack-down-on-companies-that-allow-robocalls
[3] Associated Press. (2022). Feds crack down on robocall companies. Retrieved from https://apnews.com/article/business-technology-california-government-and-politics-676c5d5b9e53e30978106c49c5495438
[4] CNET. (2022). FCC targets 37 voice service providers for enabling robocalls. Retrieved from https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/fcc-targets-37-voice-service-providers-for-enabling-robocalls/
[5] USA Today. (2022). Feds target 37 companies for enabling robocalls. Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2022/03/31/feds-target-37-companies-enabling-robocalls/7189950001/
[6] California AG's Office. (2022). AG Bonta Announces California Joins Nationwide Crackdown on Robocalls. Retrieved from https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/ag-bonta-announces-california-joins-nationwide-crackdown-robocalls
In this nationwide operation against robocalls, the FCC is not only targeting the identified 37 providers for noncompliance with FCC rules but also aims to notify downstream providers who accept call traffic from these companies, as these providers might be unwittingly doing business with companies that violate technology regulations in cybersecurity. Cybersecurity technology regulations are essential to address the problem of robocalls and prevent scams, financial losses, and disrupted communication.
