On August 25, the Federal Trade Commission (FCC) released an Order removing 1,203 voice service providers (VSPs) from the FCC’s Robocall Mitigation Database (RMD) for various compliance-related defects. The August 25 Order just a few weeks after the FCC released a similar Order removing 185 non-compliant VSPs.
What is the Robocall Mitigation Database?
The RMD was created by the FCC as part of the 2019 Pallone-Thune TRACED Act, aiming to fight illegal and unwanted robocalls by enforcing accountability and transparency among VSPs. The database originated from mandates in the TRACED Act and FCC regulations implemented beginning in 2021, which require every VSP to certify their adoption of robocall mitigation measures and caller ID authentication standards (such as STIR/SHAKEN).
The RMD’s purpose is to ensure that all providers transmitting calls over U.S. networks have documented and implemented programs to reduce illegal robocalls, to increase industry transparency, and to protect consumers from fraudulent and unwanted communications. VSPs who fail to register and maintain accurate filings risk being blocked from U.S. communications networks.
Reasons for Removal
To remain in good standing, the FCC requires VSPs to:
- File and maintain accurate certifications in the Robocall Mitigation Database.
- Implement STIR/SHAKEN for caller ID authentication on IP networks.
- Submit and follow a robocall mitigation plan detailing specific mitigation measures.
- Responsively cooperate with traceback requests to aid investigations of illegal robocalls.
The FCC specifically delisted providers who either did not cure deficient RMD filings, neglected to submit or accurately update mitigation plans, or failed to comply with regulatory obligations such as implementing STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication or responding to traceback requests regarding illegal robocall campaigns.
- Deficient Certifications: Providers failed to demonstrate adherence to robocall mitigation requirements, often neglecting to file or update required documentation, describe mitigation practices, or show proper implementation of caller authentication tools.
- Disregarding FCC Warnings: Following a December 2024 mandate, 2,411 providers were warned to fix their deficient filings or provide valid reasons to remain. Over 1,200 did not comply, leading to their removal after repeated warnings.
- Ignoring Traceback Requests: Some providers failed to respond to traceback requests related to suspected illegal robocalls, a violation of FCC traceback cooperation rules.
- Failure to Register or File Mitigation Plans: Providers who did not register with the RMD or did not file a satisfactory robocall mitigation plan describing how they prevent illegal call traffic were targeted for removal.
Impact and Compliance Mandates
Providers removed from the database include PBX Interactive, Bellhaven Cable TV, and the City of Fort Collins, Colorado. These and the 1200 other VSPs included in the Order are barred from US networks and cannot rejoin without explicit FCC approval. Other telecom carriers must block all traffic from delisted entities, cutting them off from US communications. The crackdown reflects the FCC’s heightened enforcement against those failing to fulfill consumer protection duties and stop illegal robocalling.
The FCC has made it abundantly clear that VSPs that fail to meet any of their obligations are subject to and will be removed from the database, reflecting the Commission’s commitment to rigorous oversight and protection against illegal robocalls.
