This article is a summary of news from February 2019.
All in Wireless
FCC Installs New Process For Reporting Changes To Antenna Structure Ownership
The FCC has installed a new two-step process for reporting changes in ownership of towers and other antenna structures. Under the new ownership change application process, both the assignor and the assignee must log into the FCC’s Antenna Structure Registration System, complete their respective portions of the application, and provide the signature of an authorized person.
“Punching Above Your Weight” – AMG Big Winner in CAF II Auction
One big CAF II auction winner is AMG Technology Investment Group LLC, receiving a total of $281.28 million over ten years, to serve 100,581 locations in six states. AMG does business as NextLink, a Texas-based fixed wireless Internet service provider. Will AMG be able to follow through on the promises it made to win CAF II funding? On paper seems like a long shot.
Cryptocurrency Investor Files SIM Swap Lawsuit Against AT&T
Cryptocurrency investor Michael Terpin has filed a lawsuit against wireless provider AT&T for failing to prevent a fraudulent SIM swap on his account, which Mr. Terpin alleges resulted in the loss of $24 million in cryptocurrency. Mr. Terpin claims he fell victim to SIM swap fraud at the hands of criminals working directly with an AT&T employee.
Red Scare II: Will FCC Blacklist Equipment Providers That Present National Security Threat
The FCC has released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that seeks comment on a rule prohibiting the use of universal service fund support to purchase equipment or services from any communications equipment or service providers identified as posing a national security risk to U.S. communications networks or the communications supply chain. Comments are due on or before June 1, 2018, and reply comments are due on or before July 2, 2018.