Malaysia Introduces Five-SIM Limit Per Telco to Strengthen Fight Against Scams KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 26 — Malaysia has imposed a new limit restricting individuals to registering no more than five prepaid SIM cards per telecommunications provider, in a decisive move to combat scams and prevent misuse of mobile numbers. The new regulation, enforced by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), takes effect immediately and applies …

Malaysia Introduces Five-SIM Limit Per Telco to Strengthen Fight Against Scams #Malaysia #ScamPrevention #TelecomRegulation #SIMCardLimit #MCMC

Banking groups push for laws to curb spoofed calls, impersonation ads and crypto kiosks Industry representatives told lawmakers telecom spoofing, paid impersonation ads on social platforms, and unregulated crypto kiosks are key enablers of scams and asked the Arkansas Legislature to consider state-level accountability measures and share model bills from other states.

Scammers are increasingly exploiting telecom spoofing and social media impersonation ads, prompting urgent calls for new regulations to protect consumers and recover lost funds.

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#AR #CitizenPortal #ConsumerProtection #CryptoAccountability #TelecomRegulation

Dunn County to Move Airport Cell‑Tower Dispute to Executive Session After Developer Letter Airport officials told the county the proposed 315‑foot telecom tower intrudes on approach plates; the tower developer says the conditional‑use permit is valid. Commissioners agreed to discuss potential litigation in executive session.

Dunn County is caught in a heated debate over a proposed telecom tower that could jeopardize airport safety, with potential legal battles brewing behind closed doors.

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#DunnCounty #ND #CitizenPortal #TelecomRegulation #PublicSafety #DunnCountyAirport #CommunityPlanning

House committee debates whether to extend, remove or replace the 2‑48a sunset; PUC and carriers disagree on workshop role Members reviewed draft changes to the telecom-siting statute including workshop procedures and invited stakeholders, with the Public Utility Commission urging removal of the 2‑48a sunset for certainty while carriers and some advocates said the workshop process adds low yield and risks codifying federal preemption language.

Tensions rise in Vermont as the House committee debates the future of the contentious 2‑48a telecom-siting bill, with strong disagreements over local input and federal preemption looming large.

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#VT #CitizenPortal #TelecomRegulation #StakeholderEngagement #PublicPolicy

Vermont committee hears bill to extend 30 V.S.A. §248a sunset for communications siting Lawmakers introduced H.5.7 to push the sunset on 30 V.S.A. §248a — the PUC certificate-of-public-good pathway for communications facilities — for three years, arguing periodic renewals keep telecom companies engaged while some members raised concerns about diminished local party rights under the streamlined process.

Vermont lawmakers are debating a crucial bill that could reshape how telecommunications siting is approved, but concerns are growing over local rights in the process.

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#VT #TelecomRegulation #PublicUtility #VermontTelecommunications #CitizenPortal #StakeholderEngagement

FCC Imposes New Requirements on VoIP Service Providers with Direct Access to Number Blocks, Seeks Comment on Additional Measures

The FCC has adopted a Third Report and Order and FNPRM expanding certification requirements for interconnected VoIP providers with direct access to numbering resources.

Read more: https://bit.ly/49cBdRX

#FCC #VoIP #TelecomRegulation

Officials say FCC rulemaking could curb local control over wireless siting; city joins coalition Officials said the Federal Communications Commission has reopened rulemaking on wireless facilities and the city joined a coalition of municipalities seeking to retain local control over siting and appearance. City counsel and outside attorney Gail Karish of Best Best & Krieger are involved in advocacy; officials cautioned the FCC ultimately enforc

Carmel-by-the-Sea officials are fighting to keep local control over wireless facilities as the FCC reopens rulemaking that could tip the scales in favor of industry interests.

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#MontereyCounty #CA #CivicEngagement #CitizenPortal #TelecomRegulation

FCC Proposes Tougher Standards for Call Labeling and Foreign-Originated Calls

FCC is stepping up the fight against robocalls. A new 9th FNPRM proposes tougher rules for voice service providers across the call chain.

Read more: https://bit.ly/482EvaU
#FCC #TelecomRegulation #RobocallMitigation

Massachusetts House Grants Committee Extension for Final Report on Telecommunications Bills House committee receives extension until December 3 to report on multiple telecommunications documents

Massachusetts House committee granted an extension until December 3 to finalize crucial telecommunications reports that could reshape the industry.

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#MA #CitizenPortal #DigitalAccess #PolicyReform #TelecomRegulation

Click Subscribe #KKR #TelecomItalia #EUBusiness #MergerNews #TelecomRegulation

Will the real MVNOs please stand up? Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) are playing an increasingly vital role in spreading connectivity across emerging markets. While they typically operate in smaller-scale environments than Mobil...

An eye-opening read on why MVNOs fail in emerging markets, with #Thailand as a "prime example". The #NBTC's failure to enforce its own policies, has led to the collapse of Thai MVNOs.

#TelecomRegulation #Failure #กสทช #MVNO

developingtelecoms.com/telecom-busi...

Will the real MVNOs please stand up? Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) are playing an increasingly vital role in spreading connectivity across emerging markets. While they typically operate in smaller-scale environments than Mobil...

An eye-opening read on why MVNOs fail in emerging markets, with #Thailand as a "prime example". The #NBTC's failure to enforce its own policies, has led to the collapse of Thai MVNOs.

#TelecomRegulation #Failure #กสทช #MVNO

developingtelecoms.com/telecom-busi...

Industry experts urge Govt to prioritise Namibia before granting Starlink ownership exemption Industry experts want the government to prioritise Namibia’s future as it weighs exempting United States (US)-based Starlink from the 51% local ownership rule. Nearly a year after it applied to operate in Namibia under its 100% foreign ownership model, billionaire Elon Musk’s satellite internet company remains in regulatory limbo. While Namibia’s Communications Act caps foreign telecom ownership at 49%, minister of information and communication technology Emma Theofelus has the power to grant the company the right to operate in Namibia without local partners. Tech expert Nrupesh Soni says while Starlink could boost rural connectivity where existing internet service providers struggle, exempting it from local ownership laws may undermine efforts to ensure Namibian participation in key sectors. “If Starlink is exempted, what stops other global players from demanding the same, especially in finance, health, or energy?” Soni says. He says granting Starlink the licence to operate without local partners also invites risks to data sovereignty. “With no Namibian ownership, what happens to the information flowing through Starlink?” Soni asks. Soni suggests if the government is to consider an exemption, it must come with conditions such as mandatory local data centres or data localisation commitments, strategic partnerships with Namibian entities and a commitment to digital skills training – especially in rural areas. Institute for Public Policy Research Frederico Links says it is not in Namibia’s interest to frustrate and antagonise potential investors and service providers that could be game changing. “I think it would be short-sighted to insist that major international companies give up significant control or their potential investments before they have made an actual investment. How this situation is handled could send a loud message to potential investors,” he says. Economist Josef Sheehama says the country should not undermine the goal of local content criteria by accommodating Starlink at the expense of regulatory frameworks. “Why should Namibia be forced to compromise its development goals for the sake of Starlink?” he asks. Sheehama says Starlink’s entry into the Namibian market is laudable, but may lead to other corporations having the same requirements. “We must be consistent in our decision-making if we want to see our economy flourish,” he says. Kara van den Heever, junior equity analyst at Simonis Storm, says the firm believes there is a compelling and exceptional case for granting Starlink an ownership exemption. “Starlink is one of the few viable solutions that can bridge digital divide at scale, and without delay . . . No domestic or regional player currently offers a comparable technological solution with similar reach and readiness,” she says. The firm says the exemption would not equate to bypassing local participation as Paratus Holdings Namibia, already appointed as Starlink’s business services reseller, has a functioning structure for local value creation and service delivery. Theofelus says no final decision has been made yet on whether Starlink’s licence will be approved without the required local ownership. “The process is ongoing and we updated Starlink on the status of their application in April,” she says. Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran) spokesperson Mufaro Nesongano has confirmed that Starlink submitted its application in June 2024 and has requested legal exemption from local ownership. He says licensing cannot proceed until Theofelus rules on the company’s request. “The application may take longer, considering Cran must first wait for the ownership exemption application to be finalised by the minister of ICT,” Nesongano says. Starlink has been facing hurdles in countries like South Africa, which would require it to obtain network and service licences – both requiring 30% ownership by historically disadvantaged groups. Several countries have, however, allowed Starlink to operate, including India, Somalia, Lesotho, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Vietnam. The post Industry experts urge Govt to prioritise Namibia before granting Starlink ownership exemption appeared first on The Namibian.

#Namibia #Starlink #TelecomRegulation #TechPolicy #RuralConnectivity

Senate Committee supports Assembly Bill 509 for Nevada broadband service expansion Committee unanimously approves bill enhancing broadband provider regulations in Southern Nevada.

Nevada is on the brink of a broadband revolution as the Senate Committee unanimously backs Assembly Bill 509, paving the way for better internet access and fair regulations!

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#NV #TelecomRegulation #NevadaBroadband #CommunityCollaboration #CitizenPortal #DigitalAccess

"Net Neutrality under attack? Deutsche Telekom faces complaint in Germany for violating EU rules. Will this set a precedent? #NetNeutrality #CloudInfrastructure #TelecomRegulation"

Fawn Berry urges Senate committee to address new issues in cable bill discussion Fawn Berry calls for further discussions on unresolved issues of the cable bill in Senate

Fawn Berry is sounding the alarm on crucial new issues in Oregon's telecommunications bill that could reshape the entire landscape—are we ready for what's next?

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#OR #TelecomRegulation #LegislativeDialogue #StakeholderEngagement

Thailand Telecom Auction: Failures, Favoritism & Duopoly Risk Delays, rushed hearings, and exclusion of MVNO input highlight major flaws in Thailand's upcoming telecom spectrum auction

Legitimacy questions plague Thailand's telecom regulator (NBTC) as a controversial spectrum auction looms. Allegations of favoritism towards the duopoly, and governance crises raise serious concerns.

#Thailand #NBTC #TelecomRegulation #MVNO #NT
www.yozzo.com/industry-new...

Decade of regulatory failures by NBTC raises questions about its ability to manage Thailand's spectrum auction fairly. Market dominance and consumer rights at risk. #TelecomRegulation #Thailand #NBTC

www.yozzo.com/industry-new...

#Telecommunications #Potatosecurity #DataProtection #TelecomRegulation #TechInfrastructure

Securing Telecoms: Balancing Regulation and Risk The telecommunications sector is increasingly recognised as the backbone of modern communication, playing a crucial role in facilitating connections and supporting critical infrastructure. However, this essential function also makes the industry a prime target for cyberthreats, especially given the large volume of data handled by telecom companies. In Namibia, the rapid growth in mobile usage and digital services has amplified the vulnerabilities within the telecommunications sector. As highlighted by the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran) in its 2023/24 Universal Report, most Namibians have access to 3G and 4G networks, which has led to an explosion in data usage. This surge necessitates robust cybersecurity measures to protect against the rising tide of cyberthreats. The Communications Act mandates Cran to promote consumer interests and regulate telecommunications services, including matters related to telecommunications security, and network standards such as cybersecurity measures. However, the current reliance on the goodwill of telecom operators for cybersecurity is inadequate. Without a regulatory framework, there are no legal obligations for operators to implement necessary security measures, leaving personal data vulnerable and the sector exposed to increased risks. It is against this background that three possible regulatory approaches are outlined: SELF-REGULATION This voluntary approach allows operators to set their own cybersecurity standards based on their risk appetite and economic constraints. While self-regulation can offer flexibility and adaptability, it lacks accountability and could result in inconsistent application of security measures. This approach may leave consumers at risk if operators prioritise business interests over security. QUASI OR CO-REGULATORY APPROACH This hybrid model involves collaboration between industry stakeholders and regulators, with a legislative framework supporting industry-led initiatives. The co-regulatory approach allows for flexibility and leverages industry expertise while ensuring adherence to basic security standards. It aligns with global trends where countries are moving towards co-regulation to balance industry innovation with necessary regulatory oversight. MANDATORY LEGISLATION This comprehensive approach entails amending existing legislation or enacting new laws to impose strict cybersecurity obligations on telecom operators. This may take the form of amending the Communications Act to strengthen the existing framework and introduce a risk-based security framework and several high-level key obligations alternatively, the elaboration and enactment of the cybercrime bill. While this method ensures compliance through legal enforcement and sanctions for non-compliance, it often involves a slower legislative process and higher costs due to extensive stakeholder engagement and infrastructure requirements. Namibia’s draft cybercrime bill of 2021 reflects the country’s commitment to creating a secure and resilient cyberspace. The bill aims to enhance the nation’s ability to combat cybercrime, promote consumer trust, and support the ongoing digital transformation of various sectors, including telecommunications. The bill proposes the establishment of a National Computer Incident Response Team, criminalises specific cyber-related offences and aims to enhance consumer trust and foster digital transformation. Although, this bill represents progress in enhancing cybersecurity frameworks, sector-specific regulations are essential to ensure that the particular needs of telecommunications are adequately met. The impact of implementing these regulations extends beyond compliance, as it involves safeguarding operators’ reputations and maintaining consumer trust. As cyberthreats evolve, proactive measures are vital for operators to stay ahead of potential risks. The need for digital education and literacy among consumers is also highlighted, as fostering awareness can enhance compliance and resilience within the industry. In conclusion, the telecommunications sector is pivotal for Namibia’s national security, economy, and public safety. As digital services continue to expand, so too does the risk of cyber exploitation. A proactive regulatory approach is necessary to address these challenges effectively. While self-regulation may offer flexibility, it lacks the accountability required to protect consumer interests. * Magano Katoole is a legal adviser: legislative drafting at the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia. The post Securing Telecoms: Balancing Regulation and Risk appeared first on The Namibian.

#Telecommunications #Cybersecurity #DataProtection #TelecomRegulation #TechInfrastructure

Securing Telecoms: Balancing Regulation and Risk The telecommunications sector is increasingly recognised as the backbone of modern communication, playing a crucial role in facilitating connections and supporting critical infrastructure. However, this essential function also makes the industry a prime target for cyberthreats, especially given the large volume of data handled by telecom companies. In Namibia, the rapid growth in mobile usage and digital services has amplified the vulnerabilities within the telecommunications sector. As highlighted by the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran) in its 2023/24 Universal Report, most Namibians have access to 3G and 4G networks, which has led to an explosion in data usage. This surge necessitates robust cybersecurity measures to protect against the rising tide of cyberthreats. The Communications Act mandates Cran to promote consumer interests and regulate telecommunications services, including matters related to telecommunications security, and network standards such as cybersecurity measures. However, the current reliance on the goodwill of telecom operators for cybersecurity is inadequate. Without a regulatory framework, there are no legal obligations for operators to implement necessary security measures, leaving personal data vulnerable and the sector exposed to increased risks. It is against this background that three possible regulatory approaches are outlined: SELF-REGULATION This voluntary approach allows operators to set their own cybersecurity standards based on their risk appetite and economic constraints. While self-regulation can offer flexibility and adaptability, it lacks accountability and could result in inconsistent application of security measures. This approach may leave consumers at risk if operators prioritise business interests over security. QUASI OR CO-REGULATORY APPROACH This hybrid model involves collaboration between industry stakeholders and regulators, with a legislative framework supporting industry-led initiatives. The co-regulatory approach allows for flexibility and leverages industry expertise while ensuring adherence to basic security standards. It aligns with global trends where countries are moving towards co-regulation to balance industry innovation with necessary regulatory oversight. MANDATORY LEGISLATION This comprehensive approach entails amending existing legislation or enacting new laws to impose strict cybersecurity obligations on telecom operators. This may take the form of amending the Communications Act to strengthen the existing framework and introduce a risk-based security framework and several high-level key obligations alternatively, the elaboration and enactment of the cybercrime bill. While this method ensures compliance through legal enforcement and sanctions for non-compliance, it often involves a slower legislative process and higher costs due to extensive stakeholder engagement and infrastructure requirements. Namibia’s draft cybercrime bill of 2021 reflects the country’s commitment to creating a secure and resilient cyberspace. The bill aims to enhance the nation’s ability to combat cybercrime, promote consumer trust, and support the ongoing digital transformation of various sectors, including telecommunications. The bill proposes the establishment of a National Computer Incident Response Team, criminalises specific cyber-related offences and aims to enhance consumer trust and foster digital transformation. Although, this bill represents progress in enhancing cybersecurity frameworks, sector-specific regulations are essential to ensure that the particular needs of telecommunications are adequately met. The impact of implementing these regulations extends beyond compliance, as it involves safeguarding operators’ reputations and maintaining consumer trust. As cyberthreats evolve, proactive measures are vital for operators to stay ahead of potential risks. The need for digital education and literacy among consumers is also highlighted, as fostering awareness can enhance compliance and resilience within the industry. In conclusion, the telecommunications sector is pivotal for Namibia’s national security, economy, and public safety. As digital services continue to expand, so too does the risk of cyber exploitation. A proactive regulatory approach is necessary to address these challenges effectively. While self-regulation may offer flexibility, it lacks the accountability required to protect consumer interests. * Magano Katoole is a legal adviser: legislative drafting at the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia. The post Securing Telecoms: Balancing Regulation and Risk appeared first on The Namibian.

#Telecommunications #Cybersecurity #DataProtection #TelecomRegulation #TechInfrastructure

نئی سب میرین کیبل کو شارک نہیں کاٹ سکتی، آپ کسی اور چیز کو شارک کہتے ہیں تو وہ الگ بات ہے، چئیرمین پی ٹی اے

مزید پڑھیے: www.aaj.tv/news/30431771/

#AajNews #PTAChairman #InternetBlocking #PakistanGovernment #InternetCensorship #TechUpdates #TelecomRegulation #SubmarineCable #DigitalRights