The latest telecom news includes announcements on TNS 2025 Robocall Report, Gateway Fiber Merges with WANRack and KWIKOM, Kyrgyzstan Imposes State-Controlled Internet, ,among others.
Bad Actors Exploit Legacy Networks in Smaller Carriers: TNS 2025 Robocall Report
A report from Transaction Network Services (TNS) highlights the vulnerability of legacy networks used by smaller telecom carriers in the U.S. According to the 2025 Robocall Investigation Report, 84 percent of calls from major carriers are signed using STIR/SHAKEN protocols, compared to just 21 percent from smaller providers. This disparity arises from continued reliance on TDM (non-IP) networks, which lack modern call authentication and are increasingly exploited by robocallers. SS7/TDM networks remain a primary target for malicious actors. In response, some smaller carriers are adopting IP-based voice transit services and authentication hubs to support STIR/SHAKEN without complete infrastructure upgrades. The report also notes a rise in robocalls using AI-generated spoofed and synthetic voices. To combat this, telecom providers are deploying advanced AI tools such as voice biometrics and call behavior analysis to detect and block threats.
Gateway Fiber Merges with WANRack and KWIKOM to Form National Fiber Network
Gateway Fiber has completed a strategic merger with WANRack and KWIKOM Communications to create a unified national fiber broadband provider. The consolidation merges Gateway’s residential and business internet services with WANRack’s E-Rate educational offerings, expanding network coverage across 25 U.S. states. The unified entity will operate under the Gateway Fiber brand, while WANRack’s education-focused services will continue as “WANRack powered by Gateway Fiber” through the end of 2025. The merger strengthens Gateway’s position to scale operations and deliver enhanced broadband services to residential users, small-to-medium enterprises, and educational institutions.
Kyrgyzstan Imposes State-Controlled Internet, Bans Pornography
Kyrgyzstan is set to implement sweeping internet regulations starting August 15, 2025, that include a complete ban on online pornography and the establishment of a state monopoly over international internet traffic. The new law mandates internet providers to block access to sites designated by the Ministry of Culture. Non-compliance will result in penalties. During a one-year trial period, state-owned telecom operator ElCat will serve as the sole gateway for international internet services. All other ISPs must transfer existing contracts for international traffic to ElCat within two months. The changes mark a significant shift in Kyrgyzstan’s telecom policy, increasing government oversight of digital infrastructure and raising concerns about operational autonomy for private telecom operators.
TelecomLead.com News Desk
