SHAKEN/STIR and spam protection

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Overview

SHAKEN/STIR technology helps protect your business calls from being marked as spam or “Scam Likely” by verifying caller authenticity. Understanding and implementing proper caller verification protects your business reputation and ensures your calls reach customers successfully.

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Understanding call reputation issues

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Why numbers get flagged

Previous ownership impact: Phone numbers often carry reputation from previous owners, leading to inherited spam labels that don’t reflect your business practices. Common flagging triggers:

• Previous owner’s calling patterns or complaints
• Sudden spikes in outbound call volume
• Consumer fraud or spam reports
• Inconsistent calling behavior patterns

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Impact on business communications

Negative consequences:

• Reduced call answer rates
• Damaged business credibility
• Lost customer opportunities
• Decreased communication effectiveness

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Clearing spam labels for US numbers

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Free Caller Registry registration

Quick registration process: Access through OpenPhone’s Trust Center for streamlined registration that clears “Scam Likely” labels faster than traditional long-form processes. Registration requirements:

1. Navigate to Settings → Trust Center in OpenPhone
2. Complete Clear Scam Likely labeling section
3. Provide accurate business information
4. Submit registration to major US carriers

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Required information

Calling company details:

• Business phone number: Your OpenPhone business number
• Business name: Official registered business name
• Business address: Physical business location

Service provider information:

• Provider name: OpenPhone (your service provider)
• Provider relationship: Business phone service

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Carrier distribution

Registry reaches major carriers:

• T-Mobile
• Verizon
• Sprint
• US Cellular
• AT&T
• Other participating carriers

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Clearing spam labels for Canadian numbers

Hiya spam detection removal:

1. Visit Hiya support portal
2. Complete spam removal form
3. Provide business verification details
4. Wait for processing and confirmation

US Carrier Registration benefits:

• Also registers Canadian numbers with STIR/SHAKEN
• Provides broader carrier recognition
• Helps prevent future spam labeling
• Complies with FCC fraud reduction protocols

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SHAKEN/STIR technology

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How SHAKEN/STIR works

Authentication process:

• Originating carrier signs call with cryptographic signature
• Call routing preserves authentication through network
• Terminating carrier verifies signature authenticity
• Display decision shows verified or unverified status

Verification levels:

• A (Full): Complete verification of caller and number
• B (Partial): Caller verified, number relationship uncertain
• C (Gateway): Originating carrier cannot verify caller

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Business pathway requirements

STIR/SHAKEN through OpenPhone:

• Available for business customers with tax ID
• Requires US Carrier Registration completion
• Provides enhanced call authentication
• Reduces fraud and spam likelihood

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Comprehensive protection strategy

Step 1: FCC Registration Complete US Carrier Registration through OpenPhone Trust Center:

• Provide business tax ID number
• Submit business verification documents
• Enable STIR/SHAKEN authentication
• Maintain compliant calling practices

Step 2: Free Caller Registry Register business legitimacy with carriers:

• Complete business information accurately
• Verify ownership of phone numbers
• Establish positive caller reputation
• Monitor registration status

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Compliance best practices

Calling behavior guidelines:

• Consistent patterns: Maintain regular calling volumes and schedules
• Legal compliance: Follow all relevant laws and regulations
• Terms adherence: Comply with OpenPhone Terms of Service
• Consumer respect: Honor opt-out requests and preferences

Avoiding red flags:

• Prevent sudden call volume spikes
• Avoid aggressive calling patterns
• Respond to consumer complaints promptly
• Maintain accurate business information

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Ongoing maintenance

Reputation monitoring:

• Regular check of number reputation status
• Monitor customer feedback about call display
• Address spam reports immediately
• Update registration information when business changes

Proactive measures:

• Annual registration renewal
• Business information updates
• Calling pattern optimization
• Customer education about legitimate calls

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Troubleshooting spam labels

When customers report spam labels:

• Verify registration status in Trust Center
• Check compliance with calling guidelines
• Submit removal requests through appropriate channels
• Communicate with customers about verification process

Persistent labeling issues:

• Contact OpenPhone support for escalation
• Provide evidence of legitimate business operations
• Document customer complaints and resolution efforts
• Consider number replacement if severely compromised

Prevention strategies:

• Implement call warming for new numbers
• Educate customers about expecting calls
• Use branded caller ID when available
• Maintain consistent business communications

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Best practices summary

Essential registrations:

• Complete US Carrier Registration in Trust Center
• Submit Free Caller Registry business information
• Enable STIR/SHAKEN authentication
• Update business details when changed
• Monitor registration status regularly

Compliance guidelines:

• Maintain consistent calling patterns
• Honor all legal requirements
• Respect consumer preferences
• Document legitimate business purpose
• Respond to complaints promptly

Ongoing tasks:

• Check number reputation monthly
• Update registrations annually
• Monitor customer feedback
• Address labeling issues immediately
• Keep business information current

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Additional resources

Need assistance? Submit a support request at support.openphone.co for help with spam label removal and caller verification.