What's Happening?
The telecom industry is making significant progress in implementing STIR/SHAKEN protocols to combat robocalls, with 84% of call traffic between top U.S. telecom providers signed and verified in the first half of 2025. Despite this progress, challenges remain, including stagnation in IP adoption among non-top operators and the exploitation of network gaps by robocall bad actors. The industry is focused on advancing efforts to facilitate migration to IP networks, improve call attestation integrity, close authentication gaps, and strengthen defenses against AI-generated voice and text fraud.
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Why It's Important?
The implementation of STIR/SHAKEN protocols is crucial for reducing robocall volume and restoring trust in the voice channel. By addressing vulnerabilities and advancing call authentication practices, the telecom industry aims to protect consumers from fraud and enhance the reliability of voice communications. The success of these efforts could lead to increased consumer confidence and reduced financial losses from scam calls. The industry's commitment to modernizing networks and deploying advanced technologies reflects broader efforts to improve cybersecurity and consumer protection.
What's Next?
The telecom industry will continue to focus on bridging the signing and connectivity divide, improving call attestation integrity, closing authentication gaps, and strengthening defenses against AI-generated fraud. Stakeholders are expected to collaborate on developing innovative solutions and regulatory reforms to address these challenges. The FCC's recent Notice of Proposed Rulemaking aims to close non-IP network gaps and enhance call signing frameworks, which could lead to further advancements in combating robocalls.
