Telephony
STIR/SHAKEN
STIR/SHAKEN is a caller ID authentication framework that lets telephone networks verify information about a call’s originating number.
STIR/SHAKEN is a caller ID authentication framework that lets telephone networks verify information about a call’s originating number.
What STIR/SHAKEN means
STIR/SHAKEN is a caller ID authentication framework that lets telephone networks verify information about a call’s originating number.
The framework uses signed identity information to help carriers evaluate whether the originating provider knows the customer and whether that customer is authorized to use the calling number. It was designed to reduce illegal caller ID spoofing, but it does not prove that a call is wanted, truthful, or compliant.
How it works
The originating voice provider attaches a signed identity token with an attestation level. Networks pass and validate that token as the call travels to the terminating provider. The receiving carrierCarrierA carrier is a telecommunications provider that transports voice calls or messages between phone numbers and networks. can use verification status with other analytics when deciding how to display, label, or handle the call.
Practical use cases
Authenticating outbound calls from assigned business numbers
Supporting carrier trust and caller ID integrity
Investigating why legitimate calls appear unverified
STIR/SHAKEN is necessary infrastructure, not a deliverability guarantee. Consent, complaint rates, accurate identity, number reputation, and calling behavior still influence whether a recipient answers or a carrier labels the call.
Frequently asked questions
Does STIR/SHAKEN stop all spoofed calls?
No. It improves authentication and traceback, but international traffic, legacy network segments, compromised accounts, and other conditions can still complicate enforcement.
Does full attestation mean a call is safe?
No. Attestation describes the provider’s relationship to the caller and number. It does not certify the content, purpose, or recipient consent.
Source: The FCC’s STIR/SHAKEN order.
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