FCC approves new rules to combat robocalls and bolster cybersecurity

The Federal Communications Commission has approved new regulations aimed at curbing robocalls, enhancing the security of telecommunications networks against cyberattacks, and more rigorously vetting overseas equipment-testing laboratories, according to a recent report by CyberScoop.

The commission unanimously passed measures to strengthen the "Know Your Customer" requirements for telecommunications companies, mandating more thorough identity verification for service enablement. This aims to prevent bad actors from exploiting U.S. phone networks, as seen in instances of illegal robocalls, including those impersonating political figures. Penalties may now be tied to the volume of illegal calls placed.

Additionally, the FCC will end the practice of blanket authorization for foreign companies on its covered entity list, which includes firms from Russia and China, to operate interstate telecommunications services within U.S. borders. This move addresses national security concerns, as equipment from these entities can infiltrate U.S. products through services not currently defined as international telecommunications. Furthermore, the FCC will no longer recognize overseas testing or equipment labs lacking reciprocity agreements with U.S. labs, building on previous efforts to block labs owned by adversarial nations.

Source: CyberScoop