Latest news with #STIR
Yahoo
7 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
TNS Half Year 2025 Robocall Report: Bad Actors Exploiting Non-IP Networks of Smaller Carriers
SIM boxing and other evolving tactics exploit non-IP traffic RESTON, Va., July 29, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--New data, released today in the Transaction Network Services (TNS) 2025 Half Year Robocall Investigation Report, reveals that bad actors are increasingly able to exploit vulnerabilities within smaller carrier networks that have not fully migrated from legacy to all-IP networks. Eighty-four percent of all call traffic between top US telecom providers (Verizon, UScellular, T-Mobile, Lumen, Comcast, Charter and AT&T) was signed and verified with STIR/SHAKEN protocols in the first half of 2025 – affirming that tier-1 carriers are maintaining a high success rate protecting their subscribers from unwanted robocalls. But only 21% of calls were signed when originating from non tier-1 carriers. "Tier-1 operators are delivering consistently high levels of signed call traffic following their migration to SIP networks and STIR/SHAKEN implementation," said Seth Walton, TNS' General Manager of Communications Market. "However, our Report data underscores that until more smaller carriers migrate their networks for SIP-to-SIP connectivity, bad actors have a path into launching robocall campaigns. Regulators, policymakers and industry leaders must continue to advance efforts and cost-feasible technologies to facilitate this network migration." The latest iteration of TNS' Robocall Investigation Report also includes several new robocall insights and trends for telecom industry stakeholders to prepare for the remainder of the year: Tier-1 Operators Face Challenges with Invalid Attestation Ninety-four percent of call traffic between top carriers was signed with "A-level" attestation. That's good news, as it demonstrates that these operators have established SIP-to-SIP connections between originating and terminating parties, making it more difficult for robocall bad actors to infiltrate tier-1 networks. However, authentication challenges are emerging as invalid attestation is occurring more frequently whereby spam calls are being delivered with improperly signed A attestation. Therefore, while some carriers may be signing traffic successfully, further call verification is needed to validate calls and eliminate openings for bad actors. Smaller Carriers' Delayed IP Migration Forces FCC Action Smaller carriers that were able to sign calls maintained strong attestation levels as well: 93% of call traffic that was signed by non–tier-1 carriers included "A-level" attestation. However, with many smaller carriers struggling to migrate fully to IP networks and Tier-1 carriers' signed traffic stagnation, bad actors are still able to hide unwanted call traffic. In response, the Federal Communications Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that will mandate and facilitate stronger call authentication frameworks for non-IP networks. Top Robocall Scams in the First Half of the Year One of the most prevalent robocall scams in the first half of the year was an IRS back taxes scam, where bad actors spoofed legitimate IRS numbers to impersonate the agency, claiming the victims owed taxes and threatening them with arrest or prison time due to the alleged tax debts. SIM boxing (also known as interconnect bypass fraud) has historically been associated with fraudsters seeking to exploit price disparities between local and international call rates. But now, bad actors are using SIM boxes to launch robocall spam campaigns from overseas by leveraging multiple SIM cards to conceal traffic within trusted networks. This attack is difficult for operators to identify and tag, as they trust traffic that originates in their own network. Other common robocall scams included fund recovery scams, Google Voice scams, solar power scams and precious metal investment scams. Americans More Proactively Reporting Robocall Activity Americans are taking a greater initiative to report scam calls. According to recent TNS survey data, 43% of respondents submitted a robocall complaint to their state's Attorney General, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), or the Do Not Call Registry in the last 12 months. This represents a significant increase from 2023, when 28% of people submitted a robocall complaint. For access to the latest robocall data trends and insights on the top scams targeting Americans this year, download the TNS Half Year 2025 Robocall Investigation Report. About TNS: TNS, a market leader in call analytics and robocall mitigation, provides an end-to-end ecosystem for protecting, and restoring trust in, voice calls. TNS addresses the full needs of wireless and wireline operators globally with TNS Call Guardian® the industry-leading call analytics solution that protects subscribers from high risk and nuisance robocalls. In addition, its Enterprise Branded Calling solution is the core component of its Identity Analytics Suite that is taking the next step in enriching consumer engagement, making voice calling an integral part of an omnichannel customer experience program. TNS analyzes over one billion call events across more than 500 operators every single day, enabling carriers to identify more unwanted robocalls. For additional information visit: View source version on Contacts Company Contact: TNSClare Cockroft/Sarah Chapman703-814-8065pr@ Or Media Contact: Bluetext for TNSThomas Walter646-265-3144tns@
Web Release
23-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Web Release
Fresh Drinks To Cool Down, Power Up & Sip Mindfully This Season At STIR
Fresh Drinks To Cool Down, Power Up & Sip Mindfully This Season At STIR United Arab Emirates, Dubai –23rd June 2025 – There's something refreshingly cool brewing at STIR Specialty Coffee—and it's not just the vibe. The wellness-driven café has just unveiled a brand-new lineup of electrolyte coolers, iced teas, smoothies, and a vibrant matcha latte designed to fuel your summer, post-workout recovery, or simply your next hangout. Whether you're coming straight from the Gym or stopping by for a focused work sesh, STIR's new menu is packed with hydration, antioxidants, and feel-good ingredients that align with your lifestyle. The Dragonfruit Strawberry Matcha Latte, priced at AED 32, is an Instagram-ready powerhouse featuring ceremonial-grade matcha, swirled with dragonfruit and strawberry for a color-packed, antioxidant-rich delight. The CocoBloom smoothie is a blend of pineapple, mango, and coconut cream, served over ice for the ultimate tropical escape. This is priced at AED 38. Electrolyte Coolers Stay refreshed and recharged with STIR's new Electrolyte Coolers, priced at AED 25. Crafted using premium hydration blends—including Humantra Electrolyte sachets, used in-house by STIR—these drinks support hydration while keeping things light and fruity · Lychee Charge: A zesty lychee + passionfruit combo that sparks instant refreshment · Triple Berry Boost: Elderberry, blackberry, and blueberry unite for an antioxidant-rich burst · Crimson Cooler: A bold blend of berry, pomegranate & strawberry for a tart-sweet sip · Electrolime Cooler: Lime & mint come together in a citrusy, clean hydration hero Iced Teas Floral, fruity, and with a unique STIR twist—these iced teas priced at AED 25 are as calming as they are cool: · CinnaCool: Hibiscus tea and passionfruit with a smooth cinnamon kick · MangoMuse: Hibiscus tea mellowed with mango purée · Peach State: A trio of pear, peach tea, and mango purée—summer in a cup
Miami Herald
28-04-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
FCC seeks to stop robocalls passing through caller ID authentication in older technology
April 28 (UPI) -- The FCC wants to block robocalls from bypassing ID authentication tools in older non-Internet Protocol network technology. Mass recordings promoting or selling something are illegal unless the person gives permission to be contacted. But fraudsters have been able to pass through older non-IP technology and avoid digital fingerprints. These include cellphones and wired phones often transmitting small amounts of data infrequently. On Monday, Federal Communications Commission panelists by a 4-0 vote moved forward to make sure the digital IDs are not washed off of any part of the call path. They approved a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to establish criteria for evaluating whether frameworks meet the TRACED Act standards. Commissioners want providers to regularly certify their implementation and would give them two years to comply after adoption of the new rule. The agency is seeking comment on implementation of caller ID authentication solutions and is trying to determine if this "opens the door for further improvements down the road," the agency said in a news release. For the last four years, the FCC has delayed the TRACED Act's deadline for carriers to implement an authentication framework for non-IP calls. "The STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication framework is a critical element -- long championed by the Commission -- for tracking, blocking, and warning customers about malicious robocalls," a news release said. The technology uses a caller ID system to verify whether calls on a provider's network are truly coming from the number on display. In 2021, major U.S. phone providers -- including AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile and Comcast -- were ordered to implement STIR/SHAKEN technology to prevent rampant spam calls. STIR/SHAKEN are acronyms for the Secure Telephone Identity Revisited and Signature-based Handling of Asserted Information Using Tokens standards, with STIR representing the protocol and SHAKEN the framework for tracking robocalls. The FAA has been trying to crack down on robocallers. Unwanted calls dropped for the third straight year, according to data released by the Federal Trade Commission in November 2024. The 2024 edition of the Federal Trade Commission's Do Not Call Registry Data Book, first created in 2003, shows complaints down by more than half since 2021. They were 1.1 million illegal robocalls last year, down from 1.2 million the year before and 3.4 million in 2021. The registry allows Americans to add their information to a list, prohibiting them from being contacted by telemarketers. "In the years to come, it will be critical we continue this progress by confronting not only telemarketers but those firms who knowingly profit from scam calls," FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection Director Sam Levine said in 2024. In December, the FCC proposed a $299.9 million fine for Roy Cox Jr. and Michael Aaron Jones, who robocalled more than 550 million people offering misleading vehicle warranty services. TheFCC directed companies to book the calls. Copyright 2025 UPI News Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
Yahoo
28-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
FCC seeks to stop robocalls passing through caller ID authentication in older technology
April 28 (UPI) -- The FCC wants to block robocalls from bypassing ID authentication tools in older non-Internet Protocol network technology. Mass recordings promoting or selling something are illegal unless the person gives permission to be contacted. But fraudsters have been able to pass through older non-IP technology and avoid digital fingerprints. These include cellphones and wired phones often transmitting small amounts of data infrequently. On Monday, Federal Communications Commission panelists by a 4-0 vote moved forward to make sure the digital IDs are not washed off of any part of the call path. They approved a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to establish criteria for evaluating whether frameworks meet the TRACED Act standards. Commissioners want providers to regularly certify their implementation and would give them two years to comply after adoption of the new rule. The agency is seeking comment on implementation of caller ID authentication solutions and is trying to determine if this "opens the door for further improvements down the road," the agency said in a news release. For the last four years, the FCC has delayed the TRACED Act's deadline for carriers to implement an authentication framework for non-IP calls. "The STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication framework is a critical element -- long championed by the Commission -- for tracking, blocking, and warning customers about malicious robocalls," a news release said. The technology uses a caller ID system to verify whether calls on a provider's network are truly coming from the number on display. In 2021, major U.S. phone providers -- including AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile and Comcast -- were ordered to implement STIR/SHAKEN technology to prevent rampant spam calls. STIR/SHAKEN are acronyms for the Secure Telephone Identity Revisited and Signature-based Handling of Asserted Information Using Tokens standards, with STIR representing the protocol and SHAKEN the framework for tracking robocalls. The FAA has been trying to crack down on robocallers. Unwanted calls dropped for the third straight year, according to data released by the Federal Trade Commission in November 2024. The 2024 edition of the Federal Trade Commission's Do Not Call Registry Data Book, first created in 2003, shows complaints down by more than half since 2021. They were 1.1 million illegal robocalls last year, down from 1.2 million the year before and 3.4 million in 2021. The registry allows Americans to add their information to a list, prohibiting them from being contacted by telemarketers. "In the years to come, it will be critical we continue this progress by confronting not only telemarketers but those firms who knowingly profit from scam calls," FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection Director Sam Levine said in 2024. In December, the FCC proposed a $299.9 million fine for Roy Cox Jr. and Michael Aaron Jones, who robocalled more than 550 million people offering misleading vehicle warranty services. TheFCC directed companies to book the calls.
Emirates Woman
12-03-2025
- Lifestyle
- Emirates Woman
You Eid-al-Fitr 2025 foodie gift guide for all your loved ones
Life by Sarah Joseph 46 mins ago As the gifting season of Eid-al-Fitr is around the corner, it's time to gift your foodie loved ones a special hamper for the occasion. Dubai offers a wide range of luxurious Food & Beverage hampers perfect for gifting during Ramadan and Eid, catering to various tastes and preferences. Perfect gift focuses elegant assortments, featuring chocolate-covered dates, seasonal fruits, and gourmet nuts. It offer shandmade chocolates and exquisite Eid-themed confections. Whether for family, friends, or corporate gifting, these hampers add a thoughtful and festive touch to Ramadan and Eid celebrations. So, to save you from the countless hours of scrolling, Emirates Woman has curated a guide with all the delicious hampers to gift this season. Ladurée View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ladurée UAE (@ladureeuae) This year, Ladurée's Ramadan collection features exquisitely crafted gift boxes and seasonal delights, perfect for sharing and embracing the spirit of the occasion. The box of 8 macaroons are priced at Dhs150 with the special packaging for the occasion. For a larger gathering the Ramadan Dates and Eugénie box is priced at Dhs450 making it the perfect gift to savour. For more information visit Bateel Known for their premium gourmet dates, Bateel has created a thoughtful gift set that unfolds an array of surprises. Packaged in boxes with thoughtful artistry, these gifts start at Dhs200 and include a set of delectable dates for each one to enjoy. The special tray can be purchased across different stores in the UAE. For more information visit STIR The specially curated STIR Gifting Box includes a selection of three specialty coffees, a premium assortment of Bateel dates, and artisanal date syrup and custom recipe cards, and a brewing guide, making every cup a perfect moment of reflection. Overall, this curated box is the ultimate treat for coffee lovers with a premium coffee selection, hand-picked gourmet dates and a specially curated recipe book to help you elevate your coffee game at home, all priced at Dhs299. For more information visit @ Flowwow For an array of delectable foodie treats, Flowwow is your go-to place. Customers can Indulge in the rich traditions of Ramadan with our beautifully arranged Ramadan Combo Tower! Packed with a delightful selection of premium dates, pecan caramels, and chocolates, this elegant gift is perfect for sharing with loved ones or adding a special touch to iftar gatherings. The package is priced at Dhs375. For more information visit AARAYA The newly launched Ramadan Collection features an array of handcrafted chocolates and gourmet dates, meticulously curated to offer a rich sensory experience. The selection includes dark chocolate truffles infused with Middle Eastern spices and silky dark chocolate with saffron, each crafted using the finest single-origin cocoa beans that are Fino de Aroma certified—a distinction held by less than 8% of the world's cocoa. This certification guarantees a superior level of purity and depth, ensuring an unparalleled tasting experience. For more information visit IGP Known for their array of hampers and F&B, this one-stop-shop platform has a myriad of delectable hampers complemented by floral arrangements. From Gourmet chocolates to bespoke cakes, there's something for everyone to choose from. With a mix of everything, this thoughtful assortment is curated to bring joy and happiness to your loved ones on this special occasion. The arrangement is accompanied with a unique acrylic tag shaped like a crescent moon along with a star. The arrangement is priced at Dhs155 with same day delivery. For more information visit Kâdo Kâdo, presents the perfect way to honour the season of giving this Ramadan. From exquisite gift boxes and leather trays filled with the finest Date Chocolate Biscuits and fluffy Coconut Macaroons, Saffron-infused sweets and Zaatar and Parmesan Biscuit Savouries, to finely crafted limited-edition cakes, Kâdo is the ultimate destination for gourmet gifting this Ramadan. Customers can delight in a range of petit sweets including rangina bites, a favourite sweet from south of Iran; and nochi, a traditional Persian sweet made with chickpea flour that crumbles and melts in the mouth. As well as locally inspired items such as chocolate date biscuits and white chocolate saffron, to items that cater and give a nod to international tastes including the light and fluffy chewy coconut macaroons, the ruby jam a nostalgic jam filled vanilla biscuit, and the luna a chocolate dipped biscuit series in white chocolate with an almond base biscuit and dark chocolate with a butter biscuit base. Prices start from Dhs60 for a mini box of 30 pcs, up to Dhs420 for a 2.3kg box and 24cm Sharing Cakes start from Dhs220. Visit the boutique located in Mirdif Avenue Mall, 1st Floor. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @klubnika_tambov68
