TransUnion to Acquire Mobile Division of RealNetworks

TransUnion plans to continue extending its business by acquiring the mobile division of RealNetworks.

The acquisition will strengthen TransUnion’s communications solutions portfolio and expand its fraud prevention capabilities, the company said in a Monday (Feb. 2) press release.

TransUnion has signed a definitive agreement for the acquisition, and the transaction is expected to close during the first half, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, according to the release.

Through earlier acquisitions and technology investments, TransUnion has extended beyond its foundation in core credit into marketing, fraud, risk and advanced analytics, the release said.

The planned acquisition of RealNetworks’ mobile division will bring TransUnion advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies; real-time analytics of text, multimedia messages and phone calls; and strategic relationships and network integration experience with telecom service providers worldwide, per the release.

RealNetworks’ mobile division offers solutions that help identify fraudulent messages and calls, enable carriers to offer secure branded calls, and detect synthetic and cloned voices during calls, according to the release.

“TransUnion is revolutionizing inbound and outbound communications,” James Garvert, senior vice president of communications solutions at TransUnion, said in the release. “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.”

Rob Glaser, chairman and CEO of RealNetworks Group, said in the release that the mobile group has delivered AI-driven technologies the reduce fraud and support trusted communications for nearly 20 years.

“We’re pleased this innovative work will continue and will contribute to TransUnion’s ongoing efforts to enhance consumer protection globally,” Glaser said.

In an earlier move, TransUnion said in January 2025 that it was purchasing Trans Union de Mexico, an arm of the country’s Buro de Credito, to expand in Mexico and continue its commitment to making trust possible in global commerce.

Also in January 2025, TransUnion said it planned to acquire British credit prequalification/distribution platform Monevo to ensure consumers and organizations can transact with confidence, again making trust possible in global commerce. At the time, TransUnion already owned 30% of Monevo’s equity.