What Is STIR/SHAKEN?

How Does STIR/SHAKEN Work and Why Is It Important?

STIR/SHAKEN is a technology framework used in modern telecom systems to combat caller ID spoofing and robocalls. It works by authenticating the caller’s identity at the network level before the call is made, which helps to ensure that the number displayed on the recipient’s phone is legitimate. Here’s how the system functions:

1. STIR (Secure Telephony Identity Revisited):
   This protocol allows telecom carriers to verify the caller’s identity using cryptographic signatures. The signature ensures that the number being used is not being spoofed or falsified.
2. SHAKEN (Signature-based Handling of Asserted Information Using Tokens):
   This protocol is used by service providers to pass along the caller’s identity information securely. When a call is made, the provider generates a token that indicates the legitimacy of the call. This token is passed along the network, helping recipients know if the call is from a verified source.

Together, these protocols prevent malicious actors from impersonating legitimate callers, which helps combat robocalls, telemarketing fraud, and other malicious practices.

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Why Is STIR/SHAKEN Important in Telecom and Call Security?

Reducing Robocalls and Fraudulent Activity

The primary goal of STIR/SHAKEN is to reduce robocalls and caller ID spoofing, practices that are often used for fraud, scams, and illegal telemarketing. By verifying caller identity, STIR/SHAKEN prevents scammers from impersonating trusted organizations. It helps to restore trust in voice communication by ensuring that the caller ID displayed is authentic and not manipulated.

Improving Customer Trust and Engagement

For businesses that rely on outbound calls for customer support, sales, or service notifications, STIR/SHAKEN enhances trust. When customers see a verified call from a legitimate business or service provider, they are more likely to answer the call. This improves customer engagement and ensures that legitimate calls are not mistaken for robocalls.

Telecom Industry Compliance

STIR/SHAKEN is also a regulatory requirement for telecom providers in many regions, particularly in the U.S. under the TRACED Act (Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence Act). The act mandates that carriers implement STIR/SHAKEN by 2021 to help combat robocalls and other fraudulent activities. Telecom providers must adopt these protocols to ensure compliance with industry standards and avoid penalties.

Enhancing Call Security and Reducing Spam

By implementing STIR/SHAKEN, telecom carriers and service providers improve the security of their networks, ensuring that only legitimate callers can make outbound calls using authentic caller IDs. This reduces the likelihood of spam calls and helps businesses and consumers maintain better call security. As spam calls decrease, customer satisfaction improves, and people are more likely to answer important calls.

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Key Takeaways

STIR/SHAKEN is a set of protocols used by telecom providers to verify the authenticity of caller ID information and prevent caller ID spoofing. It significantly reduces robocalls, fraud, and spam calls by ensuring that the number displayed to the recipient is legitimate. This technology helps businesses improve customer engagement, enhances telecom industry compliance, and restores trust in voice communications. STIR/SHAKEN is essential for telecom providers to improve call security and reduce fraudulent activity on their networks.