The Do Not Call Registry and spam calls

The National Do Not Call Registry stops most unwanted telemarketing calls, but it's not a complete solution—and understanding its limits helps you take the right steps. Registration is free, permanent, and begins working within 31 days. However, the registry only stops calls from legitimate telemarketers; scammers ignore it entirely, and companies you already do business with can still call you.

Register and report

Add your phone number to the National Do Not Call Registry. Once registered, most legal telemarketing calls must stop within 31 days. If unwanted calls continue after that period, report them to the FTC. Keep records of repeat callers and the dates they called—this information strengthens your report.

Understand what the registry doesn't cover

The registry protects you from most legitimate sales calls, but:

• Scammers and illegal callers don't follow the rules and won't stop just because you're registered
• Companies you have a relationship with—banks, insurers, charities you've donated to, or businesses you've recently contacted—can still call you
• Debt collectors and political organizations operate under different rules

Reduce your phone number's visibility

Data brokers buy and sell your phone number to companies that build calling lists. Over time, shrinking your broker footprint means your number appears on fewer target lists. This won't happen overnight, but it reduces the volume of calls you receive from new sources.

Keep reporting

If the same telemarketer calls repeatedly after 31 days, report each violation to the FTC. Patterns of illegal calling can trigger enforcement action. Don't assume one report is enough—repeat offenders need repeated documentation.