FCC plans ID mandate that could block anonymous use of prepaid burner phones
14 hours ago
- The FCC proposes requiring phone companies to collect names, physical addresses, government IDs, and alternate phone numbers from customers to combat robocallers.
- Privacy advocates and domestic violence survivor groups oppose the plan, arguing it harms individuals using prepaid 'burner phones' to protect their privacy and safety.
- Critics, including the National Network to End Domestic Violence, say the proposal would force survivors to disclose identities and locations, endangering them.
- The Kansas Coalition Against Sexual & Domestic Violence warns the rules would harm victims fleeing abuse by requiring identifying documents and location disclosure.
- FCC Chairman Brendan Carr defends the proposal as necessary to close regulatory gaps and prevent scammers from exploiting phone networks.