Quick Guide to Communication Compliance Standards and Regulations

Communication compliance is ever evolving to get ahead of continuously changing cyber threats and attack strategies. Keeping up with key compliance standards and regulations is a never-ending to-do list task—which is why we put together this brief guide to communication compliance topics you should know. 

Communication Compliance Quick Guide 

There are numerous technology standards and regulations to be aware of, with some depending on your industry. For this quick guide, we’ll cover a few of the most common that every business should keep in mind for compliant communications. 

E911, Kari’s Law, and RAY BAUM’s Act

Emergency communication is a critical compliance area, governed by E911, Kari’s Law, and the RAY BAUM’s Act. Together, these regulations ensure that emergency services can respond swiftly and accurately. 

• E911: Enhanced 911 (E911) requires businesses to enable emergency calls to automatically transmit the caller’s location information to the appropriate Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP). This ensures responders can locate individuals in distress, even if the caller is unable to provide their location verbally. 
• Kari’s Law: Enacted to ensure direct access to 911, Kari’s Law mandates that all multi-line telephone systems (MLTS) allow users to dial 911 without needing to first press a prefix (such as “9”). Additionally, the law requires notifications to designated personnel whenever a 911 call is made, facilitating faster response coordination. 
• RAY BAUM’s Act: This legislation complements E911 by requiring that precise location information, such as floor and suite details, be conveyed to emergency responders. This is particularly important in large, multi-story buildings where general location data may not be sufficient for swift assistance. 

Compliance with these emergency communication regulations is vital for safeguarding lives and ensuring businesses meet their legal obligations. 

Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS)

Businesses handling credit card transactions must adhere to PCI DSS. Communication compliance includes: 

• Avoiding the storage of sensitive cardholder data in communication logs. 
• Ensuring encryption of communications that contain payment details. 
• Limiting access to payment-related data. 

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

Organizations in the healthcare sector must follow HIPAA to protect sensitive patient information. Compliance involves: 

• Encrypting communications involving Protected Health Information (PHI). 
• Implementing secure access controls for data. 
• Regularly monitoring and auditing communications systems. 

How to Keep Up with Communication Compliance 

Compliance with communication regulations is non-negotiable. By aligning with these standards, businesses can mitigate legal risks, enhance security, and strengthen trust with customers and stakeholders. 

Stay tuned for part 2 of this blog to learn how the right communications platform and vendor can help you stay compliant with all the required regulations and any unique industry standards you adhere to.