FCC Approves Updated Rules for Blocking Some Robocalls

The FCC issued an order Wednesday limiting the number of exempted non-telemarketing robocalls to three to any residential phone from any caller within a 30-day period. “Previously, there was no limit on the number of non-telemarketing robocalls that any caller could make to a residence,” the FCC said: “Callers are also now required to allow consumers to opt out of these calls.” The order was approved by commissioners, but none released statements. In a second order, also approved by commissioners without comment, the agency requires terminating voice service providers to take new steps to make sure their networks aren’t used to transmit illegal robocalls. “Voice service providers will now be required to take affirmative steps to stop illegal calls when notified of those calls by the Commission,” the FCC said. “They will also be required to aid FCC and law enforcement efforts to identify providers that originate illegal calls.” The order expands safe harbors for providers to now include network-based blocking of calls considered “highly likely to be illegal and that have been identified using reasonable analytics, including caller ID authentication.” The FCC is staying busy under Chairman Ajit Pai, who will leave Jan. 20 when Joe Biden is sworn in as president and Democrats assume control. “Americans are sick and tired of unwanted and illegal robocalls, and today’s separate actions are like a one-two punch to ward them off,” Pai said.