TCPA & Your Rights
Understanding the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), FTC regulations, and FCC rules that protect you from robocalls, telemarketing, and illegal calls.
Telephone Consumer Protection Act
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) is a federal law enacted in 1991 to protect consumers from unwanted telemarketing calls, robocalls, and unsolicited text messages. It restricts telemarketers from using automated dialing systems without prior express consent.
- Prior Express Consent: Telemarketers must obtain written consent before calling or texting.
- Do Not Call Registry: Telemarketers must check the registry every 31 days.
- Robocall Restrictions: Auto-dialed calls are prohibited without consent.
Federal Trade Commission
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is the primary federal agency responsible for enforcing consumer protection laws, including the Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR). The FTC manages the National Do Not Call Registry and investigates deceptive telemarketing practices.
- Do Not Call Registry: The FTC manages the national registry.
- Robocall Bans: The FTC bans most robocalls.
- Enforcement: The FTC takes legal action against violators.
Federal Communications Commission
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) implements and enforces TCPA rules, protecting consumers from unwanted calls, robocalls, and spoofed caller IDs. The FCC requires STIR/SHAKEN implementation to combat caller ID spoofing.
- Robocall Restrictions: The FCC prohibits most robocalls.
- Caller ID Spoofing: Spoofing with intent to defraud is prohibited.
- STIR/SHAKEN: Required to combat caller ID spoofing.
Your Rights Under TCPA
As a consumer, you have powerful rights under the TCPA to stop unwanted calls and seek compensation for violations.
- Right to Sue: File a lawsuit against TCPA violators.
- Statutory Damages: $500 to $1,500 per violation.
- Right to Revoke: Revoke consent at any time.
- Right to Register: Register on the National Do Not Call Registry.
Take Action Against Illegal Calls
Know your rights under TCPA. CPSShield helps you document violations and connect with experienced TCPA attorneys who can help you seek compensation.
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