Misuse of Numbering Resources

Further to its responsibility to oversee the assignment of rights of use for numbering resources, the MCA is also empowered to mandate measures intended to mitigate the misuse of numbering resources, including unauthorised and fraudulent use of numbering resources. The misuse of Maltese numbers, such as through Calling Line Identification (CLI) spoofing in vishing scams, undermines trust in numbering resources and electronic communications networks and services. Furthermore, unauthorised use of Maltese numbers can adversely affect fair competition and end-user safeguards.

Within this context, in April 2024 the MCA published its Decision Notice Preventative Measures to mitigate CLI Spoofing and Vishing Scams, which mandated the introduction of anti-scam call blocking filters. These filters were activated in November 2024 and block all calls towards Maltese numbers received over international network interfaces where the CLI presents a Maltese number from specific number ranges.

Stay a step ahead of the scammers and learn more about scam communications. Check out the MCA’s FAQs on this subject.