The Federal Communications Commission yesterday announced it had removed 185 voice service providers from its Robocall Mitigation Database. The move effectively cuts these providers off from the U.S. telephone network until they resolve their compliance issues.
Driving the news:
- The FCC said the affected providers failed to update their certifications and robocall mitigation plans, despite multiple warnings and deadlines.
- Some of the removed companies had also been identified as originating or facilitating suspected illegal robocall campaigns and failing to respond to traceback requests, according to the Commission.
What they’re saying:
- “The FCC is engaged in a comprehensive effort to combat the scourge of illegal robocalls,” said FCC Chairman Brendan Carr. “That includes preventing providers from connecting to our networks if they fail to meet their regulatory obligations.”
- The FCC emphasized that participation in U.S. telecom networks requires providers to actively mitigate scam traffic.
Catch up quick:
- This enforcement follows a December 2024 order in which 2,411 providers were told to fix deficiencies in their RMD filings or face removal.
- The affected companies failed to submit updated robocall mitigation plans or provide explanations sufficient to satisfy the FCC’s requirements.
Between the lines: The removals go into effect immediately. All intermediate and voice service providers must block call traffic from the 185 removed companies within two business days of the order’s release. Any company seeking re-entry into the database must now get prior approval from both the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau and the Wireline Competition Bureau.
What’s next:
- The FCC continues to propose stricter rules around database accuracy, including new fines for false or outdated information and requirements for annual re-certification.
- Providers are being reminded to keep their certifications up to date or risk removal.
See the list of non-compliant providers
