FCC Creates Robocall Scorecard for Phone Companies

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced plans to develop a robocall mitigation scorecard. This initiative aims to rate voice service providers, including wireless, wireline, and VoIP, on their effectiveness in blocking illegal spam calls. The scorecards could incorporate metrics such as call-blocking statistics, customer complaint data, and enforcement actions, potentially assigning grades or risk classifications to providers.

The FCC stated the tool is intended to empower consumers and encourage providers to intensify their fight against illegal robocalls. The proposed scorecard will move beyond administrative checklists to composite metrics reflecting both operational practices and measurable outcomes, including the accuracy of blocking legitimate calls. Public comment is being sought on potential data sources and the most effective metrics to ensure the scorecard is useful and unbiased.

Consumer advocacy groups have expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing the need for the scorecard to contain genuinely useful information for consumers. Concerns remain about the data sources and how the ratings will translate into tangible benefits for phone users. The FCC is also considering data from various entities, including providers themselves, third-party analytics companies, and government bodies like the FTC, alongside enforcement actions and traceback data.