Do-not-call legalities?

January 9, 2010 8:29 AM

Several years ago, I asked a telemarketer to be placed on their "Do not call list." The telemarketer hung up on me before I could ask for a copy of their do-not-call policy, but I did not receive any calls for several years. Now they are calling again incessantly. I have not answered any of their calls. Are they in violation of the FCC's telemarketing laws, since I have technically asked to be put on their company-specific do not call list?
posted by idyllhands to Law & Government (4 answers total)

Best answer: Company-Specific Do Not Call Request Requirements. Federal law is that a company-specific request only applies for five years. The linked document also lists state laws, which may specify a longer period.

If you place yourself on the National Do Not Call Registry, there's no expiration for that.
posted by DevilsAdvocate at 8:50 AM on January 9, 2010

The National list worked for a while, but its powers are fading.
posted by StickyCarpet at 8:59 AM on January 9, 2010

StickyCarpet, Isn't that the truth.
posted by VC Drake at 12:50 PM on January 9, 2010

Best answer: I receive several telemarketing calls each week. I find they are all obliging to putting me on their don't call list. It's not a difficult conversation, so you don't need to avoid answering. For me, the best approach goes like this

Phone rings
Me: Hello?
Telemarketer: Is conrad53 there?
Me: Would you please put my name on your company's don't call list?
Telemarketer: Okay.
Me: Thank you. Goodbye.

The key is to state the request at the beginning of the conversation. Anyone who asks for me is likely a telemarketer. I don't give them a chance to start reading their script. They've all been happy to agree. I should also note that I use a polite tone of voice, almost like I'm asking for a favor, which I believe keeps the conversation easy.
posted by conrad53 at 2:05 PM on January 9, 2010