FCC Targets Robocall Menace with New VoIP Phone Number Controls
Published Date: 2/12/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FCC is proposing new rules to control how internet phone service providers get phone numbers, aiming to stop illegal robocalls and protect phone number resources. These changes affect VoIP providers and could improve public safety and national security. Comments on the proposal are due by mid-April 2026, so providers and the public should weigh in soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.
Reclaiming VoIP Phone Numbers
The FCC proposes reclaiming telephone numbers that were obtained directly from Numbering Administrators by interconnected VoIP providers when the provider's VoIP numbering authorization has been revoked or terminated or when the provider is no longer providing service due to bankruptcy or other critical circumstances. The Commission asks whether porting numbers or other steps could reduce disruption to affected end-users and consumers.
Ban Covered-List Entities From VoIP Numbers
The FCC seeks comment on prohibiting entities identified on the Commission's Covered List (and their affiliates and subsidiaries) from obtaining a VoIP numbering authorization. The proposal is intended to reduce illegal robocalls and strengthen national security by denying direct access to numbering resources to entities deemed high risk.
Certifications and Reporting for Covered Equipment
The FCC asks whether interconnected VoIP providers should be required to certify and report if they use equipment or services that appear on the Covered List, and whether authorizations should be reevaluated or restricted if "covered" equipment is discovered in a provider's network. The Commission also asks whether existing authorization holders should be required to make such certifications.
Broader Prohibitions for Third-Party Interconnectors
The FCC seeks comment on whether prohibitions should extend beyond Covered-List entities to third parties that supply, receive services from, carry traffic for, or interconnect with entities on the Covered List, potentially denying those third parties VoIP numbering authorizations. The proposal would expand the range of entities that could be blocked from direct numbering access.
Porting to Alternative Providers as Mitigation
As a mitigation option, the FCC seeks comment on porting numbers to a designated alternative provider or establishing a "numbering partner" to maintain service to customers whose provider loses authorization or has numbers reclaimed. This approach is suggested to reduce disruption to end-users when reclamation occurs.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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