Access Alert: ANATEL is revising rules around numbering resources and call identification

The National Telecommunications Agency of Brazil (ANATEL) is moving forward with the implementation of Resolution No. 768/2024, which will redefine fixed-line telephone service areas (STFC) in Brazil by aligning them with the existing DDD (area code) regions, and replace the current municipal-based structure. This change is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, but a phased implementation schedule is under consideration following industry feedback. A 45-day public consultation is now open to gather input from operators and the public.

The reform will reduce approximately 4,000 local areas to just 67 DDD-based regions. While subscriber phone numbers remain unchanged, the classification of calls (local vs. long-distance) will shift. As a result, calls between municipalities within the same DDD region will be treated as local, which could impact operator revenue but simplify pricing for consumers. Operators will face significant operational challenges, including reconfiguring billing systems, routing, portability frameworks, and customer support platforms. Implementation costs will be considerable, particularly for smaller providers, although the phased rollout aims to ease this burden. Number portability systems must also be updated to reflect the new local area definitions, ensuring compliance with ANATEL’s portability rules.

ANATEL has also launched the Call Authentication Working Group (GT-AUTENTICA), composed of industry representatives and non-profit entities, to establish a centralised technical solution for call authentication that addresses scam issues, as defined in Resolution No. 777/2025. This effort is aligned with the global regulatory trend to increase requirements and measures to ensure customer security and prevent the growing fraud caused by the misuse of voice services.

Operators are encouraged to participate in the consultation process of numbering migration, as well as the working group for call authentication, and prepare early for the transition to avoid service disruptions and ensure compliance.

Access Partnership supports clients in navigating the complexities of telecommunications regulations and the conditions for providing innovative services through expert analysis and strategic guidance. To find out more about how our dedicated Regulatory Strategy & Market Access experts can help you adapt to evolving requirements, please contact Chrystel Erotokritou at [email protected].