The federal government disconnects robo calls.
Got robo calls? As of today, the FTC hangs up on telemarketers who make pre-recorded solicitations to individual consumers, regardless of whether they’ve signed up to any no call registry, unless the consumer has given written permission to receive such automated messages.
Several exceptions to the federal law include banks, telecommunications companies, politicians, charitable organizations, surveys, and debt collection. Also, folks will continue to get informational messages — such as delivery notifications, flight updates, or school cancellations. But Jon Leibowitz, Chairman of the FTC says “The bombardment of such prerecorded pitches, senseless solicitations, and malicious marketing is now illegal.”
Violators could be fined up to $16,000 per robo call. The new rule only outlaws calls to consumers, not businesses. To file a complaint, call 888-382-1222 or visit www.donotcall.gov
Jackie Johnson report (1:25 mp3)
