JOHANNESBURG - South Africans could soon get relief from pesky telemarketing calls.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and the National Consumer Commission have established an Opt-Out Registry to help consumers stop unwanted direct marketing calls and messages.
The NCC has published draft guidelines for the opt-out regulations, with the system set to be officially announced on Wednesday.
“We have started encouraging direct marketers to register,” says NCC spokesperson Pheto Ntaba.
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The rollout will take place in phases. Direct marketers will first be required to register on the system before consumers are invited to create their own profiles.
The registry will allow consumers to indicate that they do not want to receive unsolicited direct marketing calls and messages.
Consumers are expected to be able to fully use the system by March. However, the registration website is already open.
How to register.
- Go to the National Consumer Commission registration portal: https://eservice.thencc.org.za
- Have a valid copy of your identity document ready.
- Complete the registration process.
- You will receive an email confirming your registration.
The system will take effect within 30 calendar days of registration. If a telemarketer contacts you after that period, they could be in violation of the Consumer Protection Act and its regulations.
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Consumers can also lodge a complaint through the same portal if they continue receiving unsolicited calls.
Companies found to be in violation of the CPA could face fines of up to R1-million or 10 percent of their annual turnover.
In addition to financial penalties, offenders could face up to 12 months in prison, with the CPA Tribunal determining the appropriate action.
The matter may then be referred to law enforcement for further prosecution.