CUSTOMER PROPRIETARY NETWORK INFORMATION (CPNI)

South Dakota telecommunications companies are implementing new Customer Proprietary Network Information (CPNI) rules in accordance with the Federal Communications Commission order, to protect the privacy of information contained in customer accounts.  The rules went into effect December 8, 2007.

Customers who walk into their telecommunications provider's office to inquire about their account are required to show photo identification.  The valid photo ID (driver's license, tribal membership card, passport, etc.) must match a name on the account before any information is released.

When customers call their telecommunications provider's business office, they will be asked some questions to confirm they are the account holder or authorized to discuss or make changes to the account before any information is released.

The new privacy rules are intended to further protect private consumer information from pretexting.  Pretexting is an illegal practice where records have been obtained, and in some cases, offered for sale on the Internet.

Fraudulently obtaining CPNI from a telephone company is punishable by fine or imprisonment.