FROM: HOLLEY CARNRIGHT
DATE: APRIL 21, 2017
RE: PRESS RELEASE - NATIONAL DO NOT CALL REGISTRY
You can reduce the number of unwanted sales calls you get by signing up for the National Do Not Call Registry, according to the Ulster County District Attorney’s Division of Consumer Affairs.
Most legitimate companies don’t call if your number is on the Registry. If a company is ignoring the Registry, there’s a good chance it’s a scam. If you get these calls, hang up and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
How do I register?
Add your phone number for free by visiting donotcall.gov, or calling 1-888-382-1222 from the phone you want to register.
If I register my number, will ALL unwanted calls stop?
No, the Do Not Call Registry prohibits sales calls. You still may receive political calls, charitable calls, debt collection calls, information calls and telephone survey calls.
My number is on the Registry, so why am I still getting illegal calls?
Since 2009, the FTC has seen a significant increase in the number of illegal sales calls – particularly robocalls. The reason is technology. Internet powered phone systems make it cheap and easy for scammers to make illegal calls from anywhere in the world, and to display fake caller ID information, which helps them hide from law enforcement.
What is the FTC doing to stop these calls?
To date, the FTC has sued hundreds of companies and individuals who were responsible for placing unwanted calls, and has obtained over a billion dollars in judgments against violators.
What are the penalties for breaking the law?
Those who violate the National Do Not Call Registry or place an illegal robocall can be fined up to $16,000 per call.
For further information, visit http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0108-national-do-not-call-registry. Ulster County Consumer Affairs can be reached at 340-3260.