Ransomware surge prompts FCC guidance for stronger telecom security practices

The Federal Communications Commission has urged telecom companies to bolster routine cybersecurity procedures, cautioning that simple measures like patching systems, employing multifactor authentication, and segmenting networks can significantly reduce ransomware, Cybersecurity Dive reports.

According to the FCC's alert, it has observed several ransomware incidents over the past year affecting small and mid-sized communications firms, which have disrupted service, exposed data, or blocked access to critical files. The organization reported that ransomware assaults on telecom businesses increased worldwide between 2022 and 2025. The advisory outlines recommended practices for combating ransomware perpetrators. It discusses how to report assaults to the government, including how to get in touch with the FBI, FCC, and other authorities, and is provided in the incident response section.

"Evaluating the cybersecurity practices and monitoring the vulnerability of third-party vendors reduces the risk of threats that occur outside the provider's controlled infrastructure," the FCC noted. An appendix to the alert compiles security best practices from the FCC's Communications Security, Reliability, and Interoperability Council.