Robocalls are automated telephone calls from businesses, often either debt collectors and telemarketers. These calls can be very irritating to consumers as they can seem to be never-ending and come at inconvenient times.

Consumers should note that business-related robocalls may likely be illegal if they are unwanted, but calls for emergency purposes (like an evacuation order from the police) or automated calls from charities or political parties are generally permissible.

Robocalls have existed for many years in both the political world and for businesses that have looked for an inexpensive way to reach out to potential customers.

Beginning in the 1980s when computers became relatively inexpensive and software to create robocall programs became accessible, robocalls became very prevalent. Advertisers may use robocalling as a quick way to try to obtain new customers, but if the person receiving the call does not consent to the call or revokes consent, it may be illegal under Federal law.

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act is a Federal law that is administered by the Federal Communications Commission. The law sets rules and penalties, as well as options for consumers to protect themselves from unwanted calls or texts from businesses. The FCC recently updated the rules relating to this law to provide additional protections to consumers. Under the revised rules, consumers may stop a robocaller in his tracks by simply stating that wants the calling to stop. The consumer does not have to use any method prescribed by the robocalling company.

Under this law, consumers can make complaints to the FCC or even take legal action against callers who violate the law by contacting them without written advance consent. Individuals victimized by robocallers are entitled to monetary damages for each and every violation of the TCPA.

In addition to the TCPA and the FCC, The Federal Trade Commission takes an active role in protecting consumers from harassing or otherwise improper or illegal business behavior. The FTC manages the Do Not Call registry and provides information to consumers to combat unwanted robocalls.

Contact a Knowledgeable Attorney For Help

If you are receiving annoying calls from robocallers you should consider getting legal assistance to make sure that you are using all of the legal protections you have to protect yourself from scams or other unwanted contacts.

We have been litigating claims under the TCPA since 2002 and we were class counsel in the two largest TCPA settlements to date. Contact the Keogh law firm to get knowledgeable legal advice from experienced attorneys in the consumer protection field. Contact us online or call (866)726-1092 today to receive a Free Consultation.