| Comment Number: | OL-100891 |
| Received: | 11/27/2004 3:11:59 PM |
| Organization: | |
| Commenter: | David Touretzky |
| State: | PA |
| Subject: | Trade Regulation Rule on Telemarketing Sales |
| Title: | Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, Request for Comment |
| CFR Citation: | 16 CFR Part 310 |
| No Attachments |
Comments:
I oppose the proposed rule change that would allow businesses to direct telemarketing calls to anyone they deem to be their customer, putting the onus on the recipient to opt out of further calls. What were you people thinking??? The current concept of a Do Not Call List is straightforward. The proposed rule change would muddy the waters, making it harder to determine when violations are taking place, thereby inhibiting the punishment of lawbreakers. I have filed several complaints against telemarketers who violated the DNC law. Will they now be able to skate free unless I can prove I am not their customer? Companies should be required to obtain permission in advance, in writing, before subjecting people to telemarketing calls. If they do have a legitimate business relationship with someone, this should be a trivial matter: a checkbox on an invoice or order form. If the companies feel that too few people will check the box, then they are free to establish incentive systems to encourage greater participation. I work nights and sleep in the daytime. I do not want to be dragged out of bed by every low-life outfit that once sold me a box of paperclips and now thinks aggressive telemarketing is a good idea. I'm disgusted that the FTC would even consider this proposal. Respect for individual privacy and autonomy should trump the concerns of the telemarketing industry.