In an era where telemarketing scams and robocalls have become an unfortunate reality, ensuring the integrity of telephone calls has become a critical priority for telecommunication providers and consumers alike. To combat these issues, regulators and industry stakeholders have developed the STIR/SHAKEN framework, designed to authenticate and verify the origin of telephone calls.

In this helpful guide, we will delve into the brief history of STIR/SHAKEN regulations, their significance, and provide useful STIR/SHAKEN implementation strategies to help telecommunication providers comply with these requirements.

A Brief History of STIR/SHAKEN Regulations.

STIR/SHAKEN, which stands for Secure Telephony Identity Revisited (STIR) and Signature-based Handling of Asserted information using toKENs (SHAKEN), is a framework that was developed by the telecommunications industry and regulators to combat the rise of illegal robocalls and Caller ID spoofing. Announced in 2019 by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States, the framework aims to ensure the authenticity and integrity of caller identification information through successful STIR/SHAKEN implementation solutions.

How STIR/SHAKEN Works.

STIR/SHAKEN operates by digitally signing caller information to provide a verification mechanism. Utilizing cryptographic certificates, service providers can attest to the identity of each caller, ensuring that the displayed caller ID is legitimate and has not been tampered with. This verification process allows call recipients and network operators to trust the caller's identity and make informed decisions regarding call acceptance.

The Importance of STIR/SHAKEN Implementation.

STIR/SHAKEN is a crucial development for the telecommunication industry as it helps combat caller ID spoofing and fraudulent calls. By enabling call authentication, service providers can help restore consumer trust in telephone calls. For businesses, implementing STIR/SHAKEN not only assists in regulatory compliance but also enhances their reputation, as their calls will be seen as legitimate and reliable.

STIR/SHAKEN Implementation Tips.

Understand the Regulations.

Begin by familiarizing yourself with the regulations and requirements set forth by your regulatory authority, such as the FCC in the United States. Ensure compliance with the deadlines for implementing STIR/SHAKEN and any accompanying guidelines.

Assess Current Infrastructure.

Evaluate your existing telecommunication infrastructure and identify any potential gaps or areas that require improvement. This assessment will help you determine the necessary steps required to implement STIR/SHAKEN successfully.

Establish Partnerships.

Collaborate with both internal and external stakeholders to ensure a smooth implementation process. Engage with industry partners, such as telecommunications service providers and experts in STIR/SHAKEN, to leverage their expertise and knowledge.

Adopt STIR/SHAKEN-Compliant Solutions.

Explore available technology solutions that facilitate the implementation of STIR/SHAKEN. These solutions range from software integrations to hardware upgrades or third-party services. Assess these offerings based on their compatibility with your existing infrastructure and whether they conform to the regulatory requirements.

Train Your Staff.

Ensure that your staff, particularly those involved in call handling and customer service, undergo comprehensive training on STIR/SHAKEN protocols and best practices. Educate them on recognizing and handling authenticated calls, promoting trust and security throughout your organization.

Test and Monitor.

Perform regular tests and monitoring to verify the effectiveness of your STIR/SHAKEN implementation. This process will help to identify any potential issues and allow for prompt resolution, ensuring ongoing compliance and optimal call authentication.

Do You Need Help with STIR/SHAKEN Implementation?

The team at Prescott Martini can help you successfully implement new solutions to ensure your organization remains compliant with the new STIR/SHAKEN regulations. Our experts use highly developed artificial intelligence, machine learning, telecom analytics, database manipulation, and human oversight to tell you what is actually on your network. With the guidance of some of the best telecommunications attorneys in the nation, so you can have confidence your solutions meet Federal privacy and wiretap regulations.

You can learn more about how our process works online, or get in touch to schedule a consultation today.