How to File an FTC complaint for Home Business RoboCalls
In the United States, automated calls to residences were made illegal in 2009. These calls (sometimes referred to as "Robocalls"), blast a message out to hundreds or thousands of phone numbers. In the message, you usually hear about some 'wonderful' new money making opportunity. You generally have the option to press a key to be removed or another key to hear more information.
After the FTC rule took effect in September of 2009, telemarketers were required to obtain permission from consumers who would want to receive the calls. In other words, it's an opt-in system now and not the 'free for all' it once was. Despite the fact this rule was put in place almost 2 years ago, these calls continue to come in for many people. The reason for this is not very clear, but I would suspect it has to do with the selling and re-selling of lead lists.
If you are getting these calls and feel they are 'uninvited', the first thing you should do is get your number on the FTC "Do Not Call" Registry. This can take up to 30 days. If you are already on the Do Not Call Registry and are getting these calls, you can file a complaint with the FTC. Before you file the complaint, note the number that called you and the name of the person or business that called you (and the time of day).
1 - Go to the FTC Website --> www.ftc.gov.
2 - Look at the "Quick Finder" links on the lower right hand side of the page.
3 - Click the Link for "Do Not Call Registry."
4 - On the left hand navigation list, click "File a Complaint."
Follow the instructions from there. The FTC won't investigate every single complaint. However if they start seeing "repeat offenders", they may begin to take notice. One other caveat: This rule only applies to residential numbers. If your number is a listed business number, you're still "fair game."
