New ATIS Standard to Extend SHAKEN Caller Authentication Across TDM Networks
New specification supports broader caller ID authentication and robocall mitigation to all users of North America’s communications networks.
ATIS today announced the publication of Signature-Based Handling of Asserted information Using Tokens (SHAKEN): STI-CPS Discovery for Out-of-Band PASSporT Transmission Involving TDM Networks, a new standard that extends SHAKEN caller authentication capabilities to calls that traverse Time Division Multiplexing (TDM) signaling and switching environments. The specification is pivotal for both the industry and consumers because it extends the SHAKEN protocol to the underlying technology behind traditional, legacy landlines. This addresses a longstanding challenge in the implementation of SHAKEN across mixed IP and legacy TDM networks.
Because TDM networks cannot transport the SIP Identity header used to carry SHAKEN PASSporTs, authentication information can be lost before reaching the terminating service provider. The new specification enables cryptographically signed PASSporTs to be exchanged out-of-band, separate from call signaling. This allows caller authentication information to be preserved and verified even when calls traverse TDM infrastructure.
The specification provides an important tool for maintaining caller authentication and supporting industry efforts to combat illegal robocalling and caller ID spoofing across diverse network environments. It offers service providers an important means to help strengthen consumer trust in TDM-based voice communications networks – and our overall communications infrastructure as a whole.
The standard, ATIS-1000107, Signature-Based Handling of Asserted information Using Tokens (SHAKEN): STI-CPS Discovery for Out-of-Band PASSporT Transmission Involving TDM Networks, is one of the many resources available to ATIS’ Non-IP Call Authentication Task Force (NIPCA TF) members. ATIS standards are free of charge to its members.
This standard was developed by ATIS’ NIPCA TF as part of ATIS’ ongoing leadership in advancing trusted communications and combating illegal robocalling and caller ID spoofing. The NIPCA TF is affiliated with ATIS’ Packet Technologies and Systems Committee (PTSC), which has a broad scope of work advancing transformation in the ICT industry. Specifically, PTSC develops standards related to services, architectures, signaling, network interfaces, next generation carrier interconnect, cybersecurity, lawful intercept, and government emergency telecommunications service within next generation networks.
PTSC is seeking new participants in the categories of Producer and General Interest. A Producer is an entity that produces or supplies communications equipment or infrastructure for the provision of communications services. Examples include various types of testing, monitoring, routing, and central office equipment manufacturers, software developers, etc. General Interest members are neither Producers nor Users. This category includes, but is not limited to, regulatory agencies (state and federal), researchers, other organizations and associations, and educators.
If your organization is not an ATIS member, join today. Contact ATIS Membership Director Rich Moran.
