Progress in Robocall Mitigation by Major Telecom Providers
In recent developments, top US telecom providers such as Verizon, UScellular, T-Mobile, Lumen, Comcast, Charter, and AT&T have made significant strides in maximizing their efforts against robocalls. This progress is largely attributed to the successful implementation of the STIR/SHAKEN framework, which aids in identifying and signing call traffic. The Transaction Network Services (TNS) Robocall Investigation Report for 2025 reveals that an impressive 86% of calls exchanged among these tier-1 carriers were properly signed, thus safeguarding their subscribers from the onslaught of robocalls.
Understanding the Significance of Call Signing
Within this signed traffic, around 95% achieved an "A level" attestation. This high level of verification allows for seamless SIP-to-SIP connections, efficiently linking both originating and terminating parties. Such a robust system is vital in thwarting malicious actors who seek to disrupt telecom networks and perpetrate fraud against unsuspecting users.
Challenges Faced by Non-Top Carriers
While tier-1 carriers are making notable advancements, there remains concern about non-top carriers. In 2024, the percentage of signed calls among these carriers saw a drop of nearly 25%. Many of these providers continue relying on outdated TDM circuits, which hampers their efficiency to protect users from robocall threats. This lack of modernization has opened doors for bad actors to exploit these weaknesses, reinforcing the need for urgent network transformation.
Insights from Telecom Leaders
Seth Walton, General Manager of TNS, commended the top carriers for their diligent work, stating, "Top carriers deserve praise for their implementation of STIR/SHAKEN, which has enabled them to consistently sign traffic with high attestation levels." He further stressed the necessity for non-top carriers to prioritize modernizing their networks to effectively combat robocall activities and restore trust in communication services.
Noteworthy Trends in Robocall Activity
The TNS Robocall Investigation Report has unveiled various trends impacting the telecom sector, offering insight into what lies ahead in 2025:
Rise of AI-Generated Robocalls
One alarming trend highlighted in the report is the increasing use of AI-generated robocalls. In a climate where impersonation scams are on the rise, 73% of US adults expressed concern regarding AI deepfakes mimicking familiar voices to trick victims into handing over money. Additionally, over half reported experiencing or knowing someone affected by such scams.
Political Robocalls Gain Traction
Another area of escalation is the frequency of political robocalls, particularly witnessed in critical election phases. During 2024, campaigns intensified, especially in pivotal swing states, with scams often involving false voter registration solicitations and misleading voting information.
Global Ramifications of Robocall Threats
The report also noted that the challenges posed by robocalls are not confined to the US. The global rise of deepfake technology has sparked concerns regarding the integrity of communications worldwide. Reports of similar deceptive practices surfaced during elections in other countries, including the use of AI-generated content to manipulate voters.
Multilingual Accessibility of Reports
In a bid to enhance accessibility, TNS is set to translate its Robocall Investigation Report into Japanese, Italian, and Spanish for the first time. This move aims to reach a broader audience, ensuring stakeholders globally can absorb vital data on robocalls.
About TNS
TNS is recognized as a market leader in call analytics, providing comprehensive solutions for robocall mitigation. Their TNS Call Guardian® service plays a pivotal role in shielding users from unwanted and fraudulent calls, reinforcing confidence in voice communications. The firm analyzes over 1.5 billion call events each day across more than 500 operators, equipping carriers with the tools needed to combat unwanted robocall activities effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key findings of the TNS 2025 Robocall Report?
The report indicates that 86% of traffic among top carriers was signed, significantly shielding subscribers from unwanted calls.
How does STIR/SHAKEN contribute to robocall mitigation?
STIR/SHAKEN helps in verifying the authenticity of calls which significantly reduces the risk of robocalls and fraud.
Why are non-top carriers at risk for robocalls?
Non-top carriers often rely on outdated technology that leaves them vulnerable to attacks by bad actors exploiting legacy systems.
What impact do AI-generated robocalls have?
AI-generated robocalls pose serious risks by impersonating familiar voices to defraud individuals, raising concerns among the public.
How is TNS addressing the global robocall issue?
TNS is actively analyzing call events globally and enhancing its report accessibility with translations to keep stakeholders informed on robocall trends.
