Unwanted telephone calls can be a nuisance on various levels, and the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) aims to control them. You may receive several important phone calls per day for work purposes, but unwanted calls block them from getting through. Or, you may be waiting to hear an important update from a family member in the hospital, only to have unknown numbers constantly appear on your phone.
What kinds of protection does the TCPA afford consumers? Here are two of the most important:
1. Telemarketing
Telemarketing is still a popular sales tool in the U.S., but this is regulated by the TCPA. Telemarketers must usually have received consent to make calls and these calls cannot be made before 8 am and after 9 pm. Also, if the receiver requests that the calls stop, telemarketers cannot legally call again.
Prerecorded messages
An increasing number of companies are using robocalls to target consumers. These calls are automated and typically involve the use of an artificial or prerecorded voice. Generally, the TCPA prohibits calls of this type unless the receiver has given consent.
What can you do about nuisance calls?
The TCPA allows receivers of nuisance calls to take legal action. Receivers may request an injunction from the court. This orders callers to cease communications. The TCPA also allows receivers to pursue damages depending on the number of calls received.
If you have received nuisance calls and want them to stop, seeking legal guidance can help you learn more about your rights as a consumer.