#Japan #Tokyo #ETOC #TELESA #JUSA

Collaboration with the Telemarketing Call Center

On June 10, 2025, a significant step was taken towards enhancing consumer protection within the telecommunications landscape in Japan. The Telemarketing Call Center, affectionately known as 'Denwan Center', officially commenced operations under the auspices of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. This initiative aims to tackle the persistent issue of unsolicited and fraudulent calls that have increasingly threatened the safety and peace of the Japanese public.

The collaboration involves the Elite Telecom Operator Certification Body (ETOC) and five prominent associations: the Telecommunications Services Association (TELESA), the Telecommunications Carriers Association (TCA), the Japan Internet Providers Association (JAIPA), the Japan Cable Television Association (JCTA), and the Japan Unified Communication Services Association (JUSA). Together, these entities have joined forces to foster a healthier communication market, ensuring the safety and security of communication channels for users.

Background

The rise in deceptive practices, particularly in telemarketing scams, has raised alarms across the nation. To address this troubling trend, the Japanese government has implemented comprehensive strategies aimed at protecting citizens from fraud. This includes the establishment of the Denwan Center, a dedicated helpline where citizens can report scams and seek advice concerning malicious calls. The initiative is part of the broader national policy to safeguard consumers and maintain a secure societal environment.

ETOC plays a crucial role in this collaborative effort by defining the standards for reputable telecommunications providers. Their established certification system grants the 'ETOC Certification Mark' to compliant Japanese phone number trading providers. This certification serves to enhance transparency in the telecommunications sector, enabling consumers to identify trustworthy service providers easily and avoid partnership with fraudulent entities.

ETOC and the five collaborating organizations are committed to these objectives. They aim to not only propagate the certification system but also synchronize their efforts with the newly inaugurated Denwan Center. The ultimate goal is to establish a communication ecosystem where users can conduct their telecommunications business confidently, free from the dread of scams and fraudulent practices.

About the Denwan Center

Website: Denwan Center

More details can be found in the related press release by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications: Press Release.

Overview of ETOC

The Elite Telecom Operator Certification Body (ETOC) is dedicated to promoting fair business practices among telecommunications providers in Japan. Through its evaluation and certification activities, it ensures that both wholesale transactions between service providers and user procurement of telephone services are conducted with reputable parties. ETOC’s overarching aim is to sustainably develop the telecom landscape in Japan, driving consumer confidence and market integrity.

• - Organization Name: Elite Telecom Operator Certification Body (ETOC)
• - Website: ETOC
• - Representative: Chairperson Kunio Kondo
• - Established: 2024
• - Location: 2-8-6 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan.

Partner Organizations

TELESA

• - Website: TELESA
• - Chairperson: Takayuki Kitaoka
• - Established: 1994

TCA

• - Website: TCA
• - Chairperson: Makoto Takahashi
• - Established: 1987

JAIPA

• - Website: JAIPA
• - Chairperson: Shin Kubo
• - Established: 1997

JCTA

• - Website: JCTA
• - Chairperson: Kenichi Imaibayashi
• - Established: 1980

JUSA

• - Website: JUSA
• - Chairperson: Kunio Kondo
• - Established: 2019

Through this collaborative effort, ETOC and its partners reaffirm their commitment to protecting citizens from fraud and ensuring a reliable communication infrastructure in Japan.