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Decline in Spam Calls Over Past Few Years Reported by FTC by 50%

Unwanted calls decreasing for those registered on the Do Not Call registry.

,   and  Administrator
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Reduction of Spam Calls by 50% Over Recent Years Reported by FTC
Reduction of Spam Calls by 50% Over Recent Years Reported by FTC

Decline in Spam Calls Over Past Few Years Reported by FTC by 50%

In the ever-evolving landscape of consumer protection, concerns have been raised about the potential future of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the increase in robocalls, following the suggestion of certain names by former President Donald Trump for key agency positions.

The FTC's annual report on spam calls, released in 2023, attributes a significant drop in the number of complaints about unwanted telemarketing calls in the U.S. to Operation Stop Spam Calls. However, the end of the 2010s is considered the likely peak of the scam robocall era, and there are lingering worries about a potential resurgence.

During Trump's presidency, there were fears that changes in the FTC's leadership and focus could lead to an increase in robocalls. In 2021, the Federal Trade Commission's Bureau of Consumer Protection was led by Samuel Levine as acting director; there is no public indication that he was replaced by a Trump associate at that time. However, recent reports suggest that Lina Khan, the current head of the FTC, may be replaced by someone with little to no qualifications aside from loyalty to Trump.

In an effort to combat the scourge of robocalls, Americans can register their phone number on the Do Not Call registry. Over 253 million people are currently registered, with the states showing the most active registrations relative to their population including New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. In contrast, the fewest registrations were in Alaska, with Hawaii and Texas not far behind.

The most common complaint about spam calls to the FTC over the past year was regarding medical and prescription issues. Other categories of spam complaints include energy, solar, and utilities, as well as home improvement and cleaning complaints. Reducing debt was the third most common complaint about spam calls. Imposters were the second most common complaint.

The FTC plans to continue efforts to confront not only telemarketers but firms who profit from scam calls in the future. Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection, stated that the FTC's strategy to pursue upstream players is showing signs of success.

To register your number on the Do Not Call registry, visit donotcall.gov or call the toll-free number 888‐382‐1222. It is important to note that the call to register the number should be made from the phone you want to register.

As the landscape of consumer protection evolves, it is crucial for Americans to stay vigilant and informed about the potential threats and the steps they can take to protect themselves.

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