NCTA Warns 60-Day Phone Unlocking Rule Could Fuel Billions in Fraud

WASHINGTON, Oct. 22, 2024 – A major cable industry group is warning that a proposed 60-day mobile phone unlocking standard could open the door to billions of dollars in fraud.

In a filing submitted Friday, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association urged the Federal Communications Commission to extend its proposed phone unlocking period to 180 days, arguing the proposed 60-day timeframe would not give mobile carriers enough time to detect and prevent fraudulent activity.

While NCTA supports unlocking to increase consumer choice and competition, the group cautioned that, without modifications, the FCC’s current proposal could fuel widespread handset trafficking, leading to financial losses for mobile providers.