Tech Made Simple

Hot Topics: Enter Our Apple HomePod Mini Giveaway | How to Fix Bluetooth Pairing Problems | How to Block Spam Calls | Snapchat Symbol Meaning

We may earn commissions when you buy from links on our site. Why you can trust us.

author photo

New FCC Ruling Outlaws Mobile Text Spam

by Fox Van Allen on April 19, 2013

Spam on your computer is bad enough, but when it starts showing up on your mobile phone, it’s infuriating. Unwanted messages can come from anywhere, and without an unlimited texting plan, you’re the person who winds up paying the bill. It’s so terrible that you have to wonder: Why the heck isn’t sending mobile spam illegal?

Well, it turns out that it is – or, at least, it will be. Effective October 16, 2013, a new Federal Communications Commissions rule will make it illegal for a business to send you a text message without your prior express written consent to do so. Exemptions will be made for informational texts, such as the kind you might get from your bank or credit card company. Political campaigns will also be exempt.

The FCC’s move puts a lot more power in the hands of the public when it comes to ending harassing texts, and that’s definitely a good thing. There’s no list you have to sign up for, and no form you need to fill out. The texts will simply stop, unless you tell them it’s OK to continue.

If you ask me, October can’t get here soon enough.


Topics

, News, Phones and Mobile, Blog


Discussion loading

Home | About | Meet the Team | Contact Us
Media Kit | Newsletter Sponsorships | Licensing & Permissions
Accessibility Statement
Terms of Use | Privacy & Cookie Policy

Techlicious participates in affiliate programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, which provide a small commission from some, but not all, of the "click-thru to buy" links contained in our articles. These click-thru links are determined after the article has been written, based on price and product availability — the commissions do not impact our choice of recommended product, nor the price you pay. When you use these links, you help support our ongoing editorial mission to provide you with the best product recommendations.

© Techlicious LLC.