In a significant step toward safeguarding the nation’s communication infrastructure, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has recently rolled out new rules for Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) providers. This move directly influences how these providers can gain access to telephone numbers.
The FCC VoIP rules set crucial measures in place and, according to their press release, are intended to:
- Minimize the risk of illegal robocalls.
- Shield national security and law enforcement.
- Preserve the nation’s finite numbering resources.
- Lessen the potential for regulatory loopholes.
- Bolster overall public safety.
These robust changes were triggered by insights gathered in 2021 when the FCC, under the mandate of the Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act, sought public opinion. They aimed to assess how to fortify the direct access rules to minimize potential abuses by robocallers, especially given the explosive growth of widely available VoIP software.
The FCC VoIP rules mandate that any entity seeking direct access to telephone numbering resources must provide exhaustive details about their ownership structures. They must guarantee that they are compliant with both the FCC’s directives and applicable state laws. They must also implement specific measures addressing the issues highlighted in the 2021 rulemaking.
Breaking it down, here’s what the rules necessitate from the applicants:
- Assure the FCC of their robocall-related certifications to validate their adherence to rules against illegal robocalls.
- Regularly update and disclose details regarding their ownership, emphasizing any foreign associations, to minimize the chances of overseas malicious entities accessing U.S. numbering resources.
- Verify their adherence to other rules specific to interconnected VoIP providers. This includes abiding by certain public safety guidelines and punctually submitting FCC Forms 477 and 499.
- Ensure full compliance with state laws and the necessary registration prerequisites relevant to the states where they request numbers.
Understanding and navigating these FCC VoIP rules is now more critical than ever. They not only represent a commitment to uphold national security and public safety but also echo the FCC’s proactive approach in adapting to the evolving digital communication landscape.
With TEC Services Group at your collection agency’s side, we can help you navigate these important changes to help you remain compliant. Contact us to learn how your agency will benefit: 941.375.0300.
