Limited Telemarketing Calls to Cell Phones: Regulations by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) restrict telemarketers from using automated dialing systems (autodialers) to call cell phones. Autodialers are the technology behind robocalls, those pre-recorded sales pitches that can be particularly disruptive. Since most telemarketing operations rely on autodialers for efficiency, this significantly limits their ability to target cell phone users.
Exceptions and Your Protections: There are some exceptions to these regulations. Telemarketers can still call cell phones with live representatives, but they must comply with the Do Not Call Registry. This is a free service offered by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that allows you to register your phone number to restrict telemarketing calls. It's important to note that the Do Not Call Registry is not foolproof, and some telemarketers may disregard it. However, it's a valuable first line of defense.
Beyond the Do Not Call Registry: If you're still receiving unwanted telemarketing calls, there are additional steps you can take. Many phone carriers offer call blocking features that allow you to block specific numbers or entire area codes. You can also explore third-party call blocking apps that utilize features like identifying spam calls and filtering them out before they even reach your phone.
By understanding the regulations and taking advantage of the resources available, you can significantly reduce the number of unwanted telemarketing calls you receive on your cell phone.