New FCC robocall rules promise monthly limits and new blocking tools
The FCC is hoping to better crack down on persistent unwanted robocalls, with new rules putting more responsibility on phone companies to prevent them getting through. It’s the latest escalation in an ongoing battle against unwanted and illegal robocalls, particularly those which aren’t telemarketing, with new limitations being applied and extra tools for blocking repeat offenders.
New blocking tools are being added, though consumers will have to opt into them explicitly. Phone service providers will be able to do network-based blocking, in cases where there’s a high likelihood of the call being illegal. That will be gauged “using reasonable analytics,” the FCC says, including caller ID, network monitoring, and human oversight. The new Federal Communications Commission rules, issued this week, will further tighten the limits on the industry. Two new actions have been applied, one cutting the number of non-telemarketing robocalls, and another putting more emphasis on phone companies themselves to police the process.
Here at National ComTel, our VoIP system via the web portal allows our business customers to note and block numbers themselves for quicker action. Truth be known, the same scammer usually has the same robocall from various numbers, both local and out of state caller ID numbers which makes it a challenge, and yes aggregating. We have also incorporated the new FCC STIR/SHAKEN policy for Toll Free scam calls a year before it becomes mandatory.
