More protection against unsolicited marketing calls

(Foto: Yori Merizan/iStock)

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has welcomed new regulations aimed at limiting unwanted marketing calls (“spam” calls).

The amendment to the Consumer Protection Act introduces a so-called “Opt Out Registry”, a system where consumers can register themselves to either block specific marketers, or stop all direct marketing.

The commission is the administrator of this register. Registration of direct marketers begins in July this year, with the commission announcing details of the process before then.

All direct marketers will be required to comply with the legislation.

Failure to comply with the regulations will be a breach of the Consumer Protection Act and an administrative fine of up to R1 million, or 10% of the direct marketer’s annual turnover (whichever is greater), may be imposed.

“Consumers have been exposed to intrusive and unwanted direct marketing communications for far too long. The regulations create a robust way to stop unwanted calls and ensure that consumers are protected,” says Hardin Ratshisusu, acting commissioner of the National Consumer Council.