In today's digital age, robocalls have become a persistent nuisance for both consumers and businesses. Enter STIR/SHAKEN, a revolutionary protocol designed to combat this issue. But what makes this protocol so effective? One critical aspect is its attestation levels. In this post, we will break down STIR/SHAKEN attestation levels and explore their importance in ensuring call authenticity.

Understanding the Essentials of STIR/SHAKEN

STIR (Secure Telephone Identity Revisited) and SHAKEN (Signature-based Handling of Asserted Information Using toKENs) are protocols designed to validate the authenticity of phone calls. This protocol ensures that the calling number is not spoofed, thereby reducing the prevalence of illegal robocalls. For telecom professionals, understanding STIR/SHAKEN is crucial as it plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of communication networks.

What are Attestation Levels in STIR/SHAKEN?

Attestation levels in STIR/SHAKEN refer to the different degrees of confidence that a service provider has in verifying the authenticity of a call. These levels are crucial for call authentication as they help in identifying and filtering out illegitimate calls. The attestation levels are categorized into three distinct types—A, B, and C.

Detailed Breakdown of Attestation Levels

Full Attestation (Level A)

Full attestation, or Level A, indicates the highest level of trust. Here, the service provider has verified the caller's identity and can confirm that the caller is authorized to use the calling number. Typically, this level is achieved when the service provider has a direct relationship with the subscriber and can vouch for their authenticity.

• Example:

A business using its officially registered number to make calls will typically receive a Level A attestation.

Partial Attestation (Level B)

Partial attestation, or Level B, is one step below full attestation. In this case, the service provider knows the caller but cannot verify if the caller is authorized to use the specific calling number. This level is often assigned when calls are routed through intermediary networks where the direct relationship with the caller does not exist.

• Example:

A telemarketer may receive a Level B attestation if the service provider verifies the call's origin but cannot confirm the legitimacy of the caller ID.

Gateway Attestation (Level C)

Gateway attestation, or Level C, is the lowest level of trust in the STIR/SHAKEN framework. Here, the service provider can only verify the call's entry point into their network but cannot authenticate the caller or the calling number. This level is usually applied to calls originating from outside the provider's network.

• Example:

International calls entering a local network might receive a Level C attestation, as the local provider cannot verify the call's origin beyond the gateway.

Benefits of Implementing Higher Attestation Levels

Implementing higher attestation levels offers numerous benefits for telecom providers and their users. Higher attestation levels enhance the trustworthiness of calls, ensuring that legitimate calls are not mistakenly blocked or flagged as spam. This increased trust can lead to improved customer satisfaction and reduced instances of fraud. Furthermore, it helps telecom providers comply with regulatory requirements, minimizing legal risks and enhancing their reputation.

Challenges and Future of STIR/SHAKEN

Despite its advantages, implementing STIR/SHAKEN attestation levels comes with challenges. One primary challenge is the need for widespread adoption across all service providers to ensure seamless call authentication. Additionally, the cost and complexity of upgrading existing infrastructure to support these protocols can be daunting for smaller providers.

Looking ahead, advancements in AI and machine learning could further improve the accuracy and efficiency of call authentication. Collaborative efforts among telecom providers, regulators, and technology developers will be crucial in overcoming current challenges and maximizing the potential of STIR/SHAKEN.

Experts at Prescott-Martini Understand STIR/SHAKEN Attestation Levels

Understanding the nuances of STIR/SHAKEN attestation levels is essential for telecom professionals aiming to enhance call authenticity and combat illegal robocalls. By implementing higher attestation levels, providers can build trust with their customers and ensure a more secure communication network. For comprehensive STIR/SHAKEN services and expert guidance, contact Prescott-Martini today.

By leveraging the power of STIR/SHAKEN, we can work together to create a safer and more reliable telecommunications environment.