Proximus Global, EnStream launch API to combat phone fraud

Proximus Global and EnStream have launched a new application programming interface (API) to help businesses across Canada verify whether a mobile phone number has been reassigned, addressing the challenge of recycled phone number fraud.

The collaboration aims to offer organisations real-time data on number reassignments to improve customer authentication while reducing fraud and operational costs.

EnStream will work directly with Canadian enterprises and through partners, with Proximus Global being the first to bring the reassignment verification capability to market. The service is aimed at sectors where preventing unauthorised access and ensuring secure identity verification are critical.

Fraud risks

Recycled phone number fraud is a growing concern for Canadian businesses. When mobile numbers are reassigned, companies may unknowingly send sensitive information, such as one-time passcodes, to new users of the numbers.

TransUnion data shows that 17 per cent of Canadians had reported financial losses to fraud in the last year, with average losses totalling CAD $2,013 per victim. Recycled number fraud contributes to these issues, as mobile network operators typically reassign numbers after a short period of inactivity but do not notify enterprises when changes occur. Proximus Global states that this lack of visibility can leave user accounts vulnerable to hijacking and unauthorised access.

API capabilities

The new API enables organisations to check, in real time, if a mobile number has been reassigned and when the transition happened. Businesses can use this data to flag accounts linked to recycled numbers and require re-verification before communicating necessary credentials or private information. This capability helps prevent unauthorised access and reduces the risk of fraud stemming from misdirected communications.

The solution is particularly relevant for industries that rely heavily on phone-based authentication, such as financial services, eCommerce, infrastructure, and identity management. Organisations can also lower the frequency of manual checks and repeated identity verifications, streamlining the customer experience.

Data integration

Through the partnership, EnStream provides reassignment intelligence based on data from major Canadian mobile network operators, while Proximus Global standardises and delivers this information via the API. The collaboration allows organisations operating in Canada to integrate the functionality directly into their authentication or customer management processes.

Both companies emphasise the value of collaboration between network operators, service providers, and enterprises in minimising fraud risks linked to digital channels.

"Fraud doesn't just hurt victims financially-it undermines the trust that people place in digital services every day. Even a single victim is one too many," said Upinder Saini, President and CEO at EnStream. "This partnership with Proximus Global allows us to provide businesses with real-time intelligence to keep accounts secure, while ensuring customers enjoy safer, more frictionless digital experiences."

Ben Vandermeulen, Chief Revenue Officer at Proximus Global, added that securing digital communications cannot be achieved by a single entity. 

"Preventing fraud requires collaboration between telcos, service providers, and enterprises worldwide. This partnership is proof of that," said Vandermeulen. "Through APIs, Proximus Global makes EnStream's critical intelligence easier for businesses to access and integrate, enabling them to act quickly and protect both themselves and their customers from fraud."