FCC Pushes ID-Linked Phone Plans, Sparking Privacy Alarm

The FCC proposes requiring telecoms to collect extensive personal data from all new and renewing customers—name, physical address, government ID number, and an alternate phone number—before granting service, effectively ending anonymous or burner phone use. The goal is to deter scammers, but privacy advocates warn the rule could harm vulnerable groups and expand surveillance. The proposal invites public comments (deadline June 25) and has drawn strong criticism from privacy groups and industry.