Tough new measures to end the blight of nuisance calls
12 September 2018
Rogue companies making unsolicited calls related to personal injury or payment protection insurance (PPI) claims could now be fined up to £500,000.
New powers have come into force which will see consumers given the choice to ‘opt-in’ to receive calls offering to settle personal injury or payment protection insurance (PPI) claims.
Previously people had to ‘opt-out’ of receiving such calls by registering with the free Telephone Preference Service or withdraw their consent while on the call. However, the new powers will force the caller to make the necessary checks to make sure they have the recipient’s consent before calling.
Those offering unwanted claims management services could be fined as much as half a million pounds by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) if they breach the rules.
The Financial Conduct Authority highlighted that in the last 12 months, approximately 2.7 billion unsolicited calls, texts and emails were made to the UK’s adult population offering to help them make a claim. This includes calls about recent accidents or mis-sold PPI. This is equivalent to approximately 50 calls, texts or emails being made to every member of the adult population.
If you do receive nuisance calls you can report it to the ICO who will investigate and take action against those responsible.