Word of the Day: robocall

Word of the Day: Daily updates on the latest technology terms

Word of the Day Daily updates on the latest technology terms | April 6, 2020 robocall A robocall is an automated telephone call initiated by a computer program called an autodialer or predictive dialer. Once a connection has been established, the programming delivers a prerecorded message. Robocalls are often used for appointment reminders, public-service announcements and crisis communication updates. Because telemarketers have abused the technology to deliver unwanted and frequently deceptive messages, however, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has prohibited robocalls unless the recipient has given their written permission. To get around this requirement, scammers spoof caller ID, hoping the recipient will pick up because the phone number or area code looks familiar.     In recent months, the FTC has taken steps to stop caller ID spoofing by going after those voice over IP (VoIP) services whose lax oversight has allowed scammers to make illegal robocalls. Last week, for example, the FTC sent warning letters to nine service providers whose VoIP customers are alleged to have conducted illegal robocall campaigns pretending to be public service calls about COVID-19.   STIR-SHAKEN, a joint effort by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) and the Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions (ATIS), is another initiative aimed at protecting consumers from spoofed robocalls. STIR-SHAKEN is a standards-based initiative that will enable phone companies to verify the accuracy of caller ID information. Continue reading... Today's Takeaway "The U.S. Federal Trade Commission warned nine voice over IP companies that 'assisting and facilitating' illegal robocalls related to COVID-19 is against the law. " - Arielle Waldman Related Terms You Should Know do not call list permission marketing predictive dialer caller ID spoofing VoIP caller ID crisis communication emergency communications plan Buzzword Alert call center crisis management Learn how a number of industries affected by the coronavirus -- including airlines -- have been dealing with lower-than-expected staffing levels and higher-than-expected call volumes.   IBM Call for Code IBM's Call for Code competition wants developers to create applications that help communities deal with and mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.   Coronavirus phishing Recent attacks feature a variety of malware purporting to be communication from trusted sources, such as the World Health Organization (WHO). Quiz Yourself Try this cybersecurity quiz to test your (threat) intelligence. By passing this quiz, you'll solidify your knowledge and earn CPE credit, too. Take the quiz now. Stay in Touch Thank you for reading! For feedback about any of our definitions or to suggest a new definition (or learning resource) please contact us at: editor@whatIs.com FOLLOW US About This E-Newsletter The Word of the Day is published by TechTarget, Inc., 275 Grove Street, Newton, Massachusetts, 02466 US. Click to: Unsubscribe. You are receiving this email because you are a member of TechTarget. When you access content from this email, your information may be shared with the sponsors or future sponsors of that content and with our Partners, see up-to-date Partners List, as described in our Privacy Policy. For additional information, please contact: webmaster@techtarget.com. © 2020 TechTarget, Inc. all rights reserved. Designated trademarks, brands, logos, and service marks are the property of their respective owners. Privacy Policy | Partners List