Nuisance calls: a case for concerted action

Rising numbers of complaints and surveys of consumer experiences show that nuisance calls are an increasing problem in the UK. Enforcement of regulations on nuisance calls has not been sufficient: illegal nuisance calls, such as recorded messages and repeated silent calls, as well as spam texts to mobile phones, are widespread and form a significant problem according to consumers. Calls which are legal but which consumers still find a nuisance are also a problem. To deal with these, various filtering technologies will be needed; the range of these should be improved and consumers must be properly informed about them. A review of the regulations may also be required. An integrated plan is needed, with a single point of overall control. Consumers will continue to suffer unless Government takes urgent action to enable coordination between the regulatory agencies responsible for dealing with nuisance calls and also the telephone companies who carry them. These bodies need to make it easier for consumers to complain, and work with Government to review existing rules.