FCC will require phone carriers to authenticate calls by June 2021 [pdf] (docs.fcc.gov)

Article summary

The FCC will require phone carriers to authenticate calls by June 2021. The authentication process, known as STIR/SHAKEN, aims to reduce spam calls. The details of the article are not available, but the comments suggest that this is a step towards combating phone spam. The effectiveness of this solution in eliminating spam calls is a topic of discussion among the commenters.

Main themes

• STIR/SHAKEN authentication
• spam call reduction
• call screening and blocking
• alternative communication methods
• two-factor authentication
• phone spam evolution

What commenters say

• Implementing STIR/SHAKEN is a positive step towards reducing spam calls, but its effectiveness is uncertain.
• Some people have already given up answering calls from unknown numbers due to the high volume of spam calls.
• Automatically blocking or screening calls from unknown numbers can be an effective way to reduce spam, but it may also block important calls.
• There are concerns that spammers will adapt to the new authentication process and find ways to continue making spam calls.
• Some commenters suggest that a more effective solution would be to allow people to opt-out of receiving calls from unknown numbers or to use alternative methods of communication, such as texting or emailing.
• Others propose using two-factor authentication or port-knocking to verify the identity of callers before allowing them to reach the recipient.
• The use of voicemail and transcription services can help filter out spam calls, but it may not be enough to completely eliminate the problem.