TransUnion to acquire RealNetworks’ mobile unit to combat $80B fraud market

TransUnion (NYSE:TRU) signed a definitive agreement on Monday to acquire the mobile division of RealNetworks, a move aimed at integrating advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning into its growing communications and fraud-prevention suite.

The acquisition focuses on RealNetworks’ "Kontxt" and "Metcalf" platforms, which provide real-time analytics for voice and messaging to identify fraudulent activity, including synthetic and cloned voices.

The deal allows TransUnion to bridge the gap between its existing "Trusted Call Solutions"—which verifies business identities for outbound calls—and the increasingly vulnerable messaging channel.

With global mobile fraud exceeding $80 billion annually, the integration of RealNetworks’ technology is designed to help enterprises in financial services, healthcare, and telecommunications lower risk while improving customer engagement.

The mobile unit also brings established relationships with Tier 1 global carriers like Verizon, Deutsche Telekom, and SoftBank.

The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.