Tired of Telemarketers? You don't have to hang up, just sign up!
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2003-08-12 13:54:51
Finally, Bay State residents have options for dealing with unwanted calls from telemarketers.
According to AARP research, not only do consumers find telemarketing calls annoying and intrusive, they also feel powerless to stop them. AARP Massachusetts worked hard to make the state's do-not-call law a reality. This law creates a state do-not-call registry and provides consumers with enhanced protections from unsolicited calls.
Massachusetts Do Not Call Registry
Consumers can sign up, free of charge, for the Massachusetts Do Not Call Registry year-round. Before telemarketing to residents, businesses must subscribe to the registry, which will be updated quarterly. Once added to the list, consumers in the Bay State can expect to receive fewer calls from telemarketers. However, residents may still receive unsolicited calls from non-profit organizations, polling groups and companies with which the consumer has an existing relationship.
Massachusetts Do Not Call Law
The Massachusetts do-not-call law also provides all residents with important consumer protections. For example, telemarketers cannot call Massachusetts consumers before 8 a.m. and after 8 p.m., solicitations cannot be made by facsimile, and telemarketers cannot use recorded message devices.
National Do Not Call Registry
In addition to the Massachusetts Do Not Call Registry, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently created a new, National Do Not Call Registry. Beginning July 7, 2003 consumers can register by phone or online, free of charge. State lists will be shared with the national registry, so there is no need for Massachusetts consumers to re-register to receive both federal and state consumer protection.
Sign up online for the Massachusetts Do Not Call registry or call 1-866-231-2255. Get more information about the national Do Not Call registry.
Other Resources
Massachusetts Do Not Call Registry
National Do Not Call Registry
preview