FCC Proposes Stricter KYC Standards for Voice Providers
The FCC has proposed new 'Know-Your-Customer' rules, expanding obligations for voice service providers.
Why it matters: Law firms advising telecom clients face increased compliance demands and the threat of per-call enforcement actions. Robust KYC protocols will be essential to avoid regulatory and legal exposure as the FCC seeks to reduce robocall abuses.
- The FCC adopted a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on April 30, 2026.
- Providers would need to collect and verify a customer’s name, address, ID number, and alternative phone.
- High-volume customers require additional data, including intended use and IP address.
- Retention of KYC records for at least four years after service termination would be mandatory.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is accelerating its campaign against illegal robocalls by proposing strengthened 'Know-Your-Customer' (KYC) requirements for voice service providers. The proposed rules, announced on April 30, 2026, aim to ensure providers implement robust customer verification measures before activating services.
- Originating providers would be obligated to verify customer identities, including collecting a name, physical address, government-issued ID number, and an alternative telephone number prior to enabling voice services.
- For high-volume clients, such as bulk call originators, providers must also obtain intended use of the service and the IP address used, if relevant.
- Providers would have to retain all KYC information and supporting records for a minimum of four years after the termination of the customer relationship.
- The FCC is weighing penalties for KYC violations on a per-call basis, increasing the stakes for providers with significant call traffic.
- Re-verification may be required if providers detect unusual customer activity or changing call patterns.
Commissioner Olivia Trusty emphasized, “Protecting consumers from scams is essential to safeguarding the communications networks that underpin our economic vitality and national security. Robust 'know your customer' practices are a critical component of that effort.”
The FCC’s initiative also seeks input on whether enhanced KYC rules might help prevent other criminal activities beyond illegal robocalls.
Telecom counsel and compliance teams should closely review these developments, as expanded KYC obligations could become new standards in regulatory enforcement and litigation risk.
By the numbers:
- 4 years — minimum retention period for KYC records after a customer relationship ends
- April 30, 2026 — date FCC adopted the Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
- Per-call — structure considered for KYC violation penalties
Yes, but: Details on implementation timelines and high-volume customer criteria have yet to be defined.
What's next: Stakeholders have the opportunity to comment on the FNPRM; rule finalization timelines are still pending.