In the news

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Restoring Trust in Calling Information Is Key for Maximizing Call and Text-Answer Rates

Americans were inundated with more than 58 billion illegal robocalls in 2019, plus 4.5 billion spam text messages. Consumers are so fed up that when they see a call from an unfamiliar or unidentified number, they let it drop into voicemail 76 percent of the time. In this Connections Magazine article, iconectiv’s Mike O’Brien explores the telecom ecosystem battle against illegal robocallers and SMS fraudsters, and why it’s essential to restore consumer confidence in legitimate calls.
Nov 2, 2020
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Convenient & Spam-Free: Why 800-Number Texting (8MS) is a Growing B2C Channel in North America

Texting is catching on as the preferred way to contact businesses. Texting is widely available, 93% of people consider text a trusted communication, and 85% of people prefer sending a message to a business to get information about products and services. In this article, Black Swan Telecom Journal interviews iconectiv’s Michael Gilbert on the company’s text-enabling B2C communications program and why text is increasingly preferred over voice.
Oct 19, 2020
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Coronavirus stress: Mental health issues are rising among workers, but help is available

Technology is offering news ways for individuals who feel isolated in the virtual world to find solace. With Text for Humanity, what started as an idea to combat societal issues was transformed into a messaging switchboard for well-wishers. Texting has become a personal way to get in contact with other people. Using SMS short codes—a five to six-digit phone number that is used mainly for mass communication—over 100,000 messages have been sent in over 90 countries.
Oct 15, 2020
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Wangiri Warriors: A Webinar on Solutions & Strategies for Fighting Call Back Fraud

In this Black Swan Telecom Journal webinar, iconectiv’s Principal Solutions Engineer Director John Haraburda joins a group of fraud control experts to provide a virtual advanced course on tactics and some of the latest thinking and solutions for taming Wangiri fraud. The webinar explores a new variation of Wangiri, where the fraudster’s invitation to call is done through the web.
Oct 1, 2020
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Learn Why Trust is Critical for the Success of Rich Business Messaging at PACE ACX Virtual 2020

Fortune 500 companies and some of the world’s biggest brands are currently exploring Rich Communication Services (RCS) to provide consumers with a deeper, more interactive experience than that offered by traditional SMS texting. At PACE ACX Virtual 2020, iconectiv CTO Chris Drake will describe how brand and logo verification and authentication can and must be part of the foundation for RCS, enabling legitimate businesses to protect their customer experience, reputation and bottom line.
Sep 28, 2020
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Increasing trust and simplifying verification for voice, text, and data

Today, billions of people are connected across voice, text and data communication channels every single day. Increasing robocalls and sophisticated financial scams amidst legitimate communications make it more difficult for businesses to efficiently reach and serve their consumers. Meanwhile, consumer trust is at risk—even for well-established brands. Read more from Vanilla Plus on how iconectiv is ensuring that consumers and businesses communicate with confidence and at industry scale.
Sep 17, 2020
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Trusted Toll-Free with Text Improves Customer Service

Today, there are 42 million toll-free numbers in use. Even during high-call volume periods, customers trust them for engaging with companies. In this Smart Customer Service article, our Senior Account Director Mike Gilbert explores how toll-free numbers can expand the way customer service teams engage with consumers and how business texting can help strengthen customer relationships and improve customer satisfaction.
Aug 20, 2020

Press Releases

Media Contact:
Sharon Oddy
Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications
+1 732 699-5130
soddy@iconectiv.com

press release

New Webinar: Mobile network providers capitalize on data centers

Experts from iconectiv and Small Cell Forum discuss how data center visibility enhances network planning, enabling CSPs to optimize routing, access edge resources and deploy services rapidly. The webinar explores industry standards and frameworks that facilitate seamless connectivity and monetization.
Mar 20, 2025
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Shining light on the evolving broadband switching environment at Channel Live UK

Join industry experts at Channel Live UK as they explore the evolving broadband switching landscape for business customers. Learn about best practices, challenges, and opportunities in the new switching environment.
Mar 14, 2025
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Going on the offense at MWC Barcelona 2025: tackling fintech fraud in an AI and mobile-first era

iconectiv’s Michael O’Brien joins an expert panel at MWC Barcelona 2025 to tackle the global scam economy. Panelists will explore how cross-border call authentication, industry collaboration, AI and regulatory frameworks can combat fraud in fintech and telecom.
Feb 27, 2025
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iconectiv revolutionizes outbound voice communications with new compliance-centric TruOps TRA Telemarketing Data Source (TDS) solution

iconectiv’s new TruOps TRA Telemarketing Data Source (TDS) empowers businesses to enhance call efficiency while ensuring compliance with TCPA regulations. Featuring detailed data insights and seamless integration, TDS optimizes outreach strategies and minimizes costly compliance risks.
Feb 6, 2025
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iconectiv UK Limited provides SaaS software platform to b4b Group for the New UK Broadband Switching Mandate

iconectiv UK Limited is partnering with b4b Group to simplify broadband switching under the UK’s new One Touch Switch (OTS) mandate. As a registered Managed Access Provider, iconectiv provides b4b Group seamless solutions to meet Ofcom’s regulatory requirements, enhancing the customer experience.
Nov 12, 2024
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STI-GA Executes New Agreements with ATIS and iconectiv to Continue Advancing Industry Robocall Mitigation Efforts

STI-GA renews agreements with ATIS and iconectiv to bolster the U.S. SHAKEN ecosystem and combat illegal robocalls. ATIS continues as call authentication manager, and iconectiv remains the Secure Telephone Identity Policy Administrator, advancing secure and trusted communication.
Nov 7, 2024
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iconectiv Confirmed to Continue Serving as U.S. TRS Numbering Administrator

iconectiv has been reappointed by the FCC to continue as the U.S. TRS Numbering Administrator, ensuring seamless call routing for individuals with hearing or speech impairments. This renewal reinforces iconectiv’s commitment to accessible communication for millions across the nation.
Oct 31, 2024

Speaking Engagements

Stephen Breen

Stephen Breen

Director of Sales and Partnerships & Strategy for UK and EU

Stephen Breen is the Director of Sales and Partnerships & Strategy for UK and EU for iconectiv. He is responsible for providing customers with consultation on how to drive cost-efficiencies and increase their satisfaction through iconectiv’s focused platforms on data exchange, number porting and TOTSCo compliance.

Breen is an experienced executive in the telecommunications industry with more than 25 years of experience. He previously served as Director of Partnerships for Cubit Telecom, where he led a team of Commercial and Delivery Managers in global engagement. He also holds the position of Deputy-Chair of the GSMA Wholesale Agreements & Solutions (WAS) Working Group – a global wholesale interworking and agreements-definition community.

Breen holds degrees from Methodist College Belfast, Dublin Business School and the Technological University of Dublin.

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Driving the Future of Professional Communications: iconectiv joins FCS Monthly Members Meeting to Champion Resilient Connectivity for UK Businesses

Join iconectiv’s Stephen Breen at the FCS Monthly Members Meeting on October 30, 2024, as he speaks on "One-Touch Switching is here – The opportunity and journey so far." Discover key insights on choosing the right MAP for future-ready connectivity.
Bob Grant

Bob Grant

Principal Product Manager at iconectiv

Bob Grant, Principal Product Manager at iconectiv, is responsible for setting the strategy, roadmap and feature definition for TruOps TRA and TruReach Certify. His role entails working collaboratively across all functions within the organization to ensure strategic and tactical alignment of goals and resources.

Grant has more than 20 years of experience managing products in the telecommunications industry. Before joining iconectiv, Grant served as Channel Operations Director for Avaya.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in computer science from Montclair State University and a Master of Business Administration in international business from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
 

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Empowering Connectivity: iconectiv Attends Broadband Nation Expo 2024 to Drive Seamless and Secure Digital Transformation

Join iconectiv's Bob Grant, Sarah Halko, and JC Ortiz in Washington D.C. from October 9-11, 2024, as we proudly attend Broadband Nation Expo as a bronze sponsor. This premier three-day event unites industry leaders, policymakers and innovators to address the critical challenges of bridging the digital divide and driving broadband innovation.
Alberto

Alberto Apablaza

Account Director, LATAM at iconectiv

Alberto Apablaza is the Director of Account Manager at iconectiv. He is responsible for the operations and implementation of the Number Portability in Chile and Argentina including managing new initiatives in the region. As a trusted business leader, Apablaza has demonstrated history of working in the telecommunications industry from the beginning of his career in Chile and then in South America.

Apablaza is a Computer Science Engineer with a master’s degree in management in Technological Entrepreneurships and more than 20 years of proven experience in the field of telecommunications. He has been involved in the Chile Number Portability from its conception where he led the project program in one of the most prominent carriers in Chile.

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iconectiv at Conecta Chile: Pioneering Connectivity and Innovation in the LATAM Telecom Industry

As proud gold sponsors, join iconectiv’s Shanmugavel Krishnan, Alberto Apablaza and Angie Ford at Conecta Chile from September 9-10, 2024, where we’ll be showcasing our expertise in number portability with solutions like TruNumber Finder and TruNumber Portability Clearinghouse. With a proven track record in supporting the Chilean telecom industry, iconectiv continues to drive innovation and success in the region, offering solutions that empower users and advance the industry.
Bob Grant

Bob Grant

Principal Product Manager at iconectiv

Bob Grant, Principal Product Manager at iconectiv, is responsible for setting the strategy, roadmap and feature definition for TruOps TRA and TruReach Certify. His role entails working collaboratively across all functions within the organization to ensure strategic and tactical alignment of goals and resources. 

Grant has more than 20 years of experience managing products in the telecommunications industry. Before joining iconectiv, Grant served as Channel Operations Director for Avaya. 

He holds a Bachelor of Science in computer science from Montclair State University and a Master of Business Administration in international business from Fairleigh Dickinson University. 

Angie

Angelica Ford

Sr. Account Director

Angelica Ford, Global Senior Account Director at iconectiv, is responsible for the operations and implementation of number portability, number management, Common Language and more in the Latin America Region.

Angelica as a trusted business leader with more than 30 years of experience in telecommunications and sales, she has a demonstrated history of working worldwide. Previously, she worked in numerous management and expansion roles from sales engineering to new business development.

She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics and Computer Science from Xavier University of Louisiana and a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from Howard University.

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Common Language and Cross Border Authentication at CABASE Internet Day

iconectiv’s Angelica Ford, Global Senior Account Director, and Bob Grant, Principal Product Manager, join other industry leaders at the CABASE Internet Day from May 16-17, 2024, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to cover Common Language and Cross Border Authentication.
Mike

Michael O'Brien

Executive Vice President, Business Development

Michael O’Brien is Executive Vice President of Business Development at iconectiv. He is responsible for executing on the company’s strategy and driving new pathways of sustainable growth for the company.

An experienced industry veteran, O’Brien has more than 30 years of experience in the mobile communications industry. He most recently served as Group Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development at Syniverse, where he focused on product and geographic expansion to support the company’s strategic priorities.

O’Brien was recently named one of the Top 25 Most Influential People in the Roaming and Interconnect Industry by Rocco Research. He holds a Bachelor of Computer Science Degree from the University of Virginia, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

speaking engagement

VanillaPlus Webinar with iconectiv

iconectiv’s Michael O’Brien, Chief Product Officer, joins the VanillaPlus webinar with iconectiv, “Securing the Digital Frontier: Navigating Challenges and Best Practices in Digital Identity Verification,” on April 23, 2024, at 10 a.m. ET.
David Wilson

David Wilson

Vice President of Global Sales

David Wilson is the Vice President of Global Sales for iconectiv. He is responsible for leading go-to-market, business development and sales efforts. Through his work, enterprise solutions for messaging, compliance and identity verification are supported through the development and execution of sales strategies.

Wilson is an experienced executive in the telecommunications industry with more than 30 years of experience. He previously served as the Executive Director of Numbering Market Management for Telcordia Technologies, where he managed Technical Sales Support and Contract Administrator teams. He led the efforts to define and complete technical and commercial numbering solutions in multiple countries.

Wilson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Notre Dame de Namur University.

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iconectiv Session During UK WISPA Spring 2024 Members Meeting

iconectiv’s David Wilson, Vice President of Global Sales, joins other industry leaders at UK WISPA Spring 2024 Members Meeting on March 20-21, 2024, in Birmingham, UK, for a panel to discuss the UK’s new era of broadband switching.
JC

Juan Carlos Ortiz

Principal for Corporate Business Development

Juan Carlos Ortiz is a Principal for Corporate Business Development at iconectiv. He is responsible for contributing to the continued product evolution within the TruOps platform. Ortiz has 34 years of experience in the Telecommunications sector performing work for customers worldwide. His expertise has focused on the analysis of the financial feasibility and risk profile of new communications service provider programs across a broad spectrum of domain areas. Ortiz holds a master’s degree in Operations Research and Decision Sciences from the New Jersey Institute of Technology and a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Puerto Rico. He is a Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) by the Project Management Institute. 

Chris Bain

Chris Bain

Director, Common Language Services

Chris Bain, Director, Common Language Services at iconectiv is responsible for establishing and evolving the industry naming standards that comprise TruOps Common Language. His 40+ years of process automation experience include various aspects of inventory management and service provisioning. Additionally, he contributes to technical forums in support of the industry.

speaking engagement

CCA Webinar with iconectiv

iconectiv is hosting a webinar on October 25, 2023, with CCA featuring Juan Carlos Ortiz and Chris Bain, iconectiv's Principal for Corporate Business Development and Director of Common Language Services . The webinar, "Advancing Connectivity for All with a Common Language," will spotlight iconectiv®'s TruOps™ Common Language® and its role in unlocking connectivity opportunities for all Americans while assisting service providers.