Government Approves Requirements for Blocking Spoofed Number Traffic
The Russian government has approved requirements for a system to block calls and SMS messages from spoofed numbers—known as the “Anti-Fraud” system—and established rules for its operation. The corresponding decree has been published on the legal information portal.
The system will analyze phone numbers and unique subscriber identification codes that initiate phone calls and send SMS messages. It will also detect connections for which there is no information about initiation, provide operators with this information, and monitor whether operators are allowing traffic from spoofed numbers.
Information Processed by the System
- Subscriber numbers and unique identification codes of subscribers initiating calls (including voice calls, SMS, and voice message transmissions);
- Numbers of subscribers receiving the call;
- Additional numbers used for call forwarding;
- Date and time of connection establishment;
- Communication networks involved in transmitting the traffic;
- Established connections from spoofed numbers.
The regulations apply to mobile network operators, operators whose networks initiate phone calls and connections for voice transmission, as well as operators involved in establishing phone connections and providing traffic transmission services.
The system will be operated by the Radio Frequency Service of FSUE “GRChTs” (Main Radio Frequency Center). This organization will monitor the blocking of calls and SMS from spoofed numbers in accordance with the law “On Communications.”
Previously, mobile operators criticized the draft regulations proposed by the Ministry of Digital Development regarding connection to the system for tracking and blocking spoofed numbers.
The decree will take effect on January 1, 2023.