FCC Implements New C-CIST Classification to Combat Communications Fraud

FCC Introduces C-CIST Classification

The Enforcement Bureau of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is introducing the Consumer Communications Information Services Threat (C-CIST) classification to illuminate the strategies, tactics, and procedures employed by illicit C-CIST operations. This initiative aims to enable swift detection and pursuit of appropriate actions against such threat actors by state, federal, and international regulatory bodies, as well as law enforcement agencies.

Moreover, this classification will equip industry stakeholders with valuable insights to bolster their Know Your Customer (KYC) and Know Your Upstream Provider (KYUP) protocols. By providing this information, the FCC seeks to fortify defenses against fraudulent communications, safeguarding both consumers and businesses.

In essence, this document serves as a fact sheet from the FCC, elucidating the measures being undertaken to address the menace of fraudulent communications and outlining the classification of threat actors for the protection of stakeholders.

The FCC is committed to utilizing its full regulatory authority to prevent these actors from infiltrating the US telecommunications sphere and jeopardizing consumer welfare. This proactive stance includes issuing cease and desist letters, expelling entities from the Robocall Mitigation Database, and obtaining seizure orders as necessary.

Regulatory Impact

• Top Priority: No
• Type of Certificate: No
• Spectrum Bands: No
• Import Changes HS Codes: No
• Standard Changes: No
• Product Changes: Yes
• Label Changes: No
• Link to Source - https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-eb-issues-first-ever-c-cist-classification