TFN Identity (CNAM & DNO) FAQ

Description:
This document is used to answer common questions about CNAM (Caller Name) and DNO (Do Not Originate).

1. What is TFN Identity?

TFN Identity provides Caller ID functionality to Toll-Free Numbers. This centralized storage database
collects and stores Caller Name (CNAM) information for all Toll-Free Numbers and is used by
terminating carriers to provide Toll-Free Number identification when required.
CNAM refers to the name of the person or business placing a phone call. CNAM data allows phones to
display the caller’s name, in addition to the caller’s phone number.

2. How does Toll-Free CNAM delivery work?

Toll-Free CNAM delivery starts with the terminating carrier making a dip into TFN Identity to retrieve the
associated Toll-Free CNAM that will be displayed on the end-user's device (fixed or mobile).

3. Is the TFN Identity database in sync with other existing CNAM databases?
No. TFN Identity is a standalone database provided by Somos, storing CNAM records specifically for Toll-Free Numbers that are sourced directly from the RespOrgs. CNAM data is constantly updated and
refreshed as new records become available or are updated. TFN identity validates Toll-Free Numbers
against the SMS/800 TFN Registry.

4. What happens to a Toll-Free Number’s CNAM data when a number is spared or ported
to another customer?
TFN Identity is fully integrated with the SMS/800 TFN Registry. As the authoritative source for Toll-Free
Numbers, when a Toll-Free Number is spared or ported, the SMS/800 TFN Registry notifies TFN Identity
and removes any stored RespOrg and CNAM data on that specific Toll-Free Number.

5. If my carrier is sending my CNAM based on the account name, will this override that
CNAM?
No. Our database will not override Caller ID information. We only populate TFN Identity with CNAM
data provided by the end-user, which will be dipped by the terminating carrier.

6. Is there a way to make TFN Caller ID blank, in other words, hide the identity?
If the information of the Toll-Free Number end-user has not been populated in our storage database, we
will not have the record. If the number in question is performing an outbound call and the terminating
carrier dips into our database to get the end-user information, no record will be returned since we do not
have the information, it will only show the 8YY-XXX-XXXX number.

7. What is DNO (Do Not Originate)?

DNO is a flag that can be selected on Toll-Free numbers that would not originate calls. This is an effort to cut down on consumer answering of spoofed toll-free calls. To protect an enterprise’s trusted business
number from fraudulent calls and illegal spoofing, RespOrgs can now identify non-originating calls as Do No Originate (DNO).

8. How does DNO delivery work?

Toll-Free DNO delivery starts with the terminating carriers making a dip into TFN Identity database to retrieve the associated Toll-Free DNO information. This in turn will display based on the receiving parties carriers method. Terminating will display a DNO message

9. Can I update my DNO without CNAM?

At this time, you cannot update your DNO flag without inputting a Caller Name (CNAM). We would recommend using a CNAM that will indicate that this is a number that should not originate calls. Such "Not Authorized".