Sections of this topic
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this increase and the measures implemented by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to combat these malicious messages.
Key Takeaways:
- FCC adopts first rules to counter robotext scams
- Scam text complaints have risen by 500% from 2015 to 2022
- Wireless providers now required to block certain robotext messages
The FCC’s First Steps in Tackling Robotext Scams
The FCC has recently adopted its first set of rules aimed at curbing the growing menace of scam text messages.
These new regulations require companies to block text messages that appear to originate from invalid or incapable phone numbers.
Additionally, wireless providers must now establish support for consumers seeking information on blocked texts.
The Impact of Robotexts on Consumers
Both spammers and scammers have increasingly used robotexts as an effective tool, allowing them to pose as legitimate businesses and send phishing links.
This often leads consumers to websites that steal their login credentials and other sensitive information.
With the difficulty in previewing links in text messages compared to emails, users are at an even greater risk of falling victim to these scams.
The Rise in Robotext Scams and Complaints
Between 2015 and 2022, the FCC reported a staggering 500% increase in complaints related to robotext scams.
However, these complaints represent only a fraction of the total robotexts received by Americans.
According to Robokiller, a call-blocking app, Americans received over 225 billion robotexts in 2022 alone, marking a 157% increase from 2021.
The FCC’s Efforts to Close Enforcement Gaps and Strengthen Protections
The FCC is actively working to close enforcement gaps for robotexts and has announced that it is seeking comment on additional proposals to crack down on these scams.
These include clarifying that Do-Not-Call Registry protections apply to text messages and that one-time consent does not permit companies to send messages regarding additional marketing subjects.
Consumer Advocates and Industry Groups Support FCC’s Actions
The FCC’s proposed rule, which received unanimous support from the Commission, has been met with approval from consumer advocates, attorneys general from 50 states and the District of Columbia, and industry groups.
They have urged the agency to continue partnering with wireless companies to tackle this issue and protect consumers from illegal and unwanted text messages.
To report scam texts, consumers can file a complaint with the FCC or forward the texts to their provider using the number SPAM (7726).
It is also recommended to delete any suspicious text messages received.
