The FCC is finally doing something about scam texts

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by Samuel Pordengerg Mar 18, 2023 News
The FCC is finally doing something about scam texts

According to a news release this week, the FCC has adopted regulations targeting scam texts. Mobile service providers are required by the FCC to block illegal robotext messages.

New FCC rules target scam texts

Text message scam are an increasing threat to consumers. The number of robotext complaints increased from 3,300 to 18,900 over the course of the next four years. Texts aren't easy to ignore. We almost always read the text when it arrives.

Sending us messages about a package you never ordered or a payment that never went through is a quick and easy way to get us to engage on our devices and fall prey to fraud.

According to the news release, mobile service providers will be required to block text messages that appear to come from phone numbers that aren't likely to send text messages. Users that send texts will have to establish a point of contact for providers. These can be used by anyone who sends a text.

The FCC wants to hear from the public on further proposals, such as requiring providers to block texts from entities the FCC has cited as illegal robotexters and clarifying Do-Not-Call registry protections to prevent marketing messages to registered numbers.

Something is being done about the problem of scam text messages.

After the Federal Register publishes the approval under the Paperwork Reduction Act, the rules will take effect. The FCC encourages consumers to take precautions to protect themselves from text scam.

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