FCC Finalizes New Penalties for False Robocall Database Filings

The Federal Communications Commission has established new penalties for telecom providers that submit false or inaccurate information to the Robocall Mitigation Database, with the rules scheduled to take effect on February 5, 2026.

The finalized rules introduce a $10,000 base fine for each instance where a provider submits incorrect or misleading information to the database. Providers are also required to keep their database entries up to date and face a $1,000 fine for each entry not updated within 10 business days of any change.

According to the FCC, these penalties will continue to apply until the identified deficiencies are corrected. This approach is intended to ensure ongoing compliance with the requirements for accurate and timely database reporting.

The FCC has also mandated that telecom providers must recertify the accuracy of their Robocall Mitigation Database filings every year. This annual recertification is designed to reinforce the importance of maintaining current and correct information in the database.

What the numbers show

• $10,000 base fine for each false or inaccurate filing
• $1,000 fine for each entry not updated within 10 business days
• Penalties apply until deficiencies are corrected

To strengthen security, the FCC has added two-factor authentication for access to the Robocall Mitigation Database. This measure aims to reduce unauthorized access and help ensure the integrity of the information submitted by providers.

The FCC also directed its Wireline Competition Bureau to create a new channel for reporting deficient filings in the database. This reporting mechanism is intended to help identify and address incomplete or inaccurate entries more efficiently.

The final rule was published in the Federal Register on January 6, 2026, providing official notice and outlining the requirements for compliance. The publication marks the completion of the rulemaking process and sets the timeline for the new penalties to become enforceable.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.