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TransUnion has signed a definitive agreement to acquire RealNetworks’ mobile division, aiming to make business and consumer mobile communications safer and more reliable by strengthening its voice, messaging, and analytics capabilities. The company said the transaction will enhance fraud prevention across text messages, multimedia messages, and phone calls through artificial intelligence, machine learning, and real-time analytics.
The deal adds RealNetworks’ mobile technology and telecom integration experience to TransUnion’s Communications Solutions portfolio, broadening what TransUnion can offer to enterprises and carriers that are seeking stronger identity and trust signals in customer outreach. TransUnion said the combination is expected to expand Trusted Call Solutions beyond voice to messaging, while improving threat detection, including spam, scam messages, and voice-based deception, such as synthetic and cloned voices.
RealNetworks’ mobile division brings the KONTXT messaging platform, which the company says has operated globally for years and has blocked large volumes of spam and scam traffic. TransUnion also cited recent deployments with European mobile operators as evidence of momentum in carrier-led protection and branded calling experiences, in which verified brand information helps legitimate businesses reach consumers while reducing fraud.
Financial terms were not disclosed. TransUnion said it expects to fund the acquisition with existing cash on hand and that it does not anticipate a material impact on leverage, liquidity, or 2026 operating results. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.
KEY QUOTES
“Mobile phone fraud exceeds $80 billion annually worldwide. TransUnion’s leading fraud solutions help protect businesses and consumers, and restore trust in phone communications. We expect that this acquisition will extend TransUnion’s sophisticated voice channel capabilities to messaging, strengthening how we combat fraud and help consumers and businesses connect with greater confidence.”
Mohamed Abdelsadek, Chief Global Solutions Officer, TransUnion
“The addition of the RealNetworks platform is the next step for us as we enable enterprises and carriers to reach more consumers, deliver an improved experience and lower fraud risk.”
James Garvert, SVP of Communications Solutions, TransUnion
“For nearly 20 years, our worldwide mobile team has delivered advanced, AI driven technologies that help protect consumers by reducing fraud and supporting trusted communications. Over the past eight years, our KONTXT messaging platform has protected hundreds of millions of consumers by blocking the delivery of over eight billion spam and scam messages. We’re pleased this innovative work will continue and will contribute to TransUnion’s ongoing efforts to enhance consumer protection globally.”
Rob Glaser, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, RealNetworks Group
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