As I am sure you all know the Robocall Mitigation Database (RMD) was implemented to further the FCC’s efforts when it comes to protecting America’s networks from illegal robocalls and was birthed out of the TRACED Act. The RMD was put in place to monitor the traffic on our phone networks and to assist in compliance with the rules. While the FCC has expanded the types of service providers who need to file and the requirements, they still felt there were deficiencies with accuracy and up-to-date information. The newly adopted Report and Order is set to help finetune the RMD.
On December 30th the Commission adopted a Report and Order to further strengthen their efforts and fines and fees associated with the RMD. Companies that are submitting false or inaccurate information may face fines of up to $10,000 for each filing. While failing to keep your company information current might land you a $1,000 fine. There will now be a $100 filing fee associated with your RMD application along with an Annual Recertification filing fee of $100.
Aside from the fine and fees, there are a few additional developments with the RMD, see the complete list below.
- Requiring prompt updates when a change to a provider’s information occurs (this must be updated within 10 business days or face a $1,000 fine)
- Establishing a higher base forfeiture amount for providers submitting false or inaccurate information ($10,000 fine);
- Creating a dedicated reporting portal for deficient filings;
- Issuing substantive guidance and filer education;
- Developing the use of a two factor authentication log-in solution; and
- Requiring providers to recertify their Robocall Mitigation Database filings annually ($100).
- Require providers to remit a filing fee for initial and subsequent annual submissions ($100)
Chairwoman Rosenworcel is quoted as saying “Companies using America’s phone networks must be actively involved in protecting consumers from scammers, we are tightening our rules to ensure voice service providers know their responsibilities and help stop junk robocalls. I thank my colleagues for their bipartisan support of this effort.”
The new fines and fees will become effective 30 days after publication in the CFR. While the remaining items are still under additional review. We will keep an eye on this and let you know once the Report and Order is published. Read the Report and Order here.