FAQs

  1. What is the main concern raised by the US Federal Communications Commission and Federal Trade Commission?

    • The surge in illegal coronavirus-related robocalls.
  2. What action have these agencies taken to address this issue?

    • Warned three gateway providers to cut off scam robocalls or face consequences.
  3. What will happen if these gateway providers do not comply?

    • Other service providers will be allowed to block all calls coming from them.
  4. Who has been collaborating with the FCC and FTC on this matter?

    • The US Department of Justice.
  5. What is the consequence for providers that assist illegal robocallers?

    • They will be cut off from the phone system.
  6. Which three gateway providers have been specifically identified?

    • SIPJoin, Connexum, and VoIP Terminator/BLMarketing.
  7. How have robocalls increased during the coronavirus pandemic?

    • US consumers received over 132 million robocalls in March.
  8. What tactics are scammers using in these robocalls?

    • Offering fake COVID-19 testing kits or nonexistent medical equipment.
  9. What is the Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence Act?

    • A law recently signed that addresses robocall abuse.
  10. What action can consumers take to combat unwanted robocalls?

    • Hang up on or block robocallers, file reports with the FTC.
  11. What resources has the FCC provided to help consumers?

    • A COVID-19 Consumer Warnings and Safety Tips webpage.
  12. What is the FTC’s stance on illegal robocallers during the health crisis?

    • They will be actively targeted and held accountable.

Summary

The surge in coronavirus-related robocalls has prompted the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to demand action from telecommunications service providers. Three gateway providers that are facilitating these illegal calls have been warned to cut them off within 48 hours or face serious consequences, including being cut off from the phone system.

Scammers are taking advantage of the crisis to target vulnerable Americans with robocalls offering fake COVID-19 testing kits and nonexistent medical equipment. The FCC and FTC urge consumers to be vigilant and report any unwanted robocalls to the FTC.

Consumers should hang up on or block robocallers and file reports with the FTC at ftc.gov/robocalls.