Test Call Generation (TCG) in Fraud Management: A Detailed Overview

Introduction

In the telecommunications sector, Test Call Generation (TCG) is a proactive mechanism for detecting, preventing, and managing fraud. With telecom operators facing various types of fraud—ranging from SIM box fraud to CLI fraud—TCG provides a way to regularly monitor and assess network integrity through automated, controlled test calls or messages. This blog post explores the role of TCG in fraud management, its functionality, and why it’s indispensable for telecom operators.

What is Test Call Generation (TCG)?

TCG is a method telecom operators use to generate and route test calls across their networks. These test calls simulate regular user activities, such as making phone calls or sending messages, to monitor performance, identify vulnerabilities, detect anomalies, and ensure system integrity. Unlike actual user calls, TCG-generated calls follow specific patterns and scenarios, allowing operators to assess multiple aspects of the network efficiently.

TCG plays a crucial role in detecting Subscription Fraud, Wangiri Fraud, IRSF (International Revenue Share Fraud), and other types of telecom fraud. Specifically, this testing technology is widely used to:

• Detect fraud and bypass activities such as SIM box fraud.
• Evaluate quality of service (QoS) for voice, SMS, and data.
• Ensure regulatory compliance for interconnect billing and other legal frameworks.

Why is TCG Important in Fraud Management?

Telecom fraud is a multi-billion-dollar problem impacting operators worldwide. Fraudsters continuously evolve their tactics, making it essential for operators to stay ahead. Here’s why TCG is a vital component of fraud management:

1. Fraud Detection

TCG is instrumental in identifying SIM box fraud, where fraudsters bypass international call rates using local SIM cards to route international calls. By generating test calls from specific locations, operators can identify suspicious activities before they escalate into major revenue losses.

2. Network Performance Monitoring

Beyond fraud detection, TCG serves as a robust tool for monitoring network performance. Operators can track call quality metrics, latency, and other performance indicators to ensure optimal network functionality.

3. Billing Verification

TCG helps verify the accuracy of call detail records (CDRs) by comparing generated test calls with billing system records. This ensures that users and interconnection partners are billed correctly.

4. International Call Verification

Test calls are often sent internationally to confirm correct call termination and detect fraud techniques like “grey routes,” which illegitimately terminate calls, leading to revenue loss.

5. Cost Savings

By detecting and preventing fraud early, TCG helps operators avoid substantial financial losses associated with fraudulent activities.

6. Regulatory Compliance

In many countries, telecom operators must meet specific service quality and billing accuracy standards. TCG ensures compliance, reducing the risk of penalties from regulators.

Types of Telecom Fraud Detected Using TCG

SIM Box Fraud

Fraudsters set up multiple SIM cards in a “SIM box” to terminate international calls as local ones, avoiding higher termination fees. TCG detects irregular call patterns, indicating SIM box activity.

CLI Manipulation

Fraudsters may manipulate Caller Line Identification (CLI) to conceal the origin of a call, often leading to fraud. TCG can detect such cases by tracing test calls and comparing them with CLI data.

Subscription Fraud

Fraudsters obtain services using fake or stolen identities. TCG helps identify unusual usage patterns associated with these accounts.

Premium Rate Service (PRS) Fraud

By generating test calls to premium-rate numbers, TCG can detect fraudsters initiating premium-rate calls to generate revenue illegally.

PBX Hacking

Fraudsters hack into PBX systems to make unauthorized calls. TCG can simulate PBX call patterns to detect vulnerabilities.

Revenue Leakage

Incorrect routing or call termination can lead to revenue leakage. TCG ensures accurate routing and revenue capture by simulating various call scenarios.

How TCG Works

1. Test Script Creation

TCG platforms enable users to define parameters for test calls, such as duration, destination, time intervals, and type (voice, SMS, or data). Example scenarios include:

• Simulating international calls to high-risk destinations.
• Testing premium rate numbers.
• Generating calls during off-peak hours to detect unusual activity.

2. Test Call Generation

Once the script is created, the TCG system initiates test calls or SMS messages according to predefined rules. These calls are routed through the network like regular calls and distributed across various points and countries, depending on the scenario.

3. Data Collection

The TCG system records key data, including call quality (e.g., jitter, packet loss), call success rate, and latency. For fraud detection, the system looks for anomalies, such as unusual routing patterns or discrepancies in expected call termination points.

4. Analysis and Reporting

The TCG platform monitors results and provides detailed reports. Key metrics such as call duration, routing paths, and billing records are analyzed for discrepancies. If irregularities or fraud are detected, alerts are triggered for further investigation.

5. Automated Response

Advanced TCG systems integrate with fraud management platforms, enabling automatic preventive actions such as:

• Blocking suspected fraudsters.
• Rerouting traffic.
• Updating fraud rules.
• Enhancing security measures to prevent revenue loss.

Benefits of Using TCG in Fraud Management

• Proactive Fraud Detection: Regular test calls allow operators to detect fraud in real time, preventing large-scale revenue losses.
• Cost Efficiency: Reduces costs associated with manual fraud detection, making TCG a cost-effective solution.
• Enhanced QoS Monitoring: Enables operators to continuously assess service quality across locations and service types.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to international telecom regulations, minimizing the risk of penalties.
• Customization and Scalability: Operators can tailor TCG solutions to specific fraud types and scale as needed.

Challenges and Limitations of TCG

• False Positives: TCG may generate false positives, requiring manual intervention to validate results.
• Complex Setup: Establishing a comprehensive TCG system requires deep knowledge of networks and fraud patterns.

Best Practices for Implementing TCG

• Conduct TCG regularly to stay ahead of evolving fraud tactics.
• Use diverse test scenarios to cover all potential fraud vectors.
• Implement real-time monitoring tools to detect and respond to anomalies.
• Collaborate with industry partners to share fraud prevention insights.
• Leverage AI-driven analytics for enhanced fraud detection.

Conclusion: The Role of TCG in Modern Telecom Fraud Management

Test Call Generation (TCG) is a crucial tool for combating telecom fraud. By simulating call scenarios and monitoring network behavior, TCG enables operators to detect and prevent fraudulent activities before they cause significant damage. As fraudsters continue to evolve, investing in robust TCG solutions is essential for telecom operators looking to protect their revenue, maintain customer trust, and ensure network integrity.

If you’re a telecom operator seeking to enhance your fraud management capabilities, consider integrating TCG into your strategy. Stay vigilant, stay secure, and keep your network fraud-free!