Spam callers are breaking the law with this call tactic
Some spam callers in South Africa might be breaking the law with this call tactic.
If you're like most South Africans, you’ve just about had it with the mounting number of spam calls plaguing the country.
To make matters worse, call centres have now started using seemingly normal mobile numbers, making it more difficult to identify spam calls
But according to MyBroadband, using mobile numbers in this way is actually illegal.
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The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) said it is currently investigating this tactic, highlighting that it is illegal for call centres operating out of fixed premises to use mobile numbers.
MyBroadband reported that offenders could be subjected to fines between R300,000 and R3 million, as using mobile numbers for fixed services would be in violation of the 2016 Numbering Plan Regulations.
The Internet Service Providers' Association (ISPA) reportedly urged Icasa to investigate the matter and crack down on call centres in fixed premises illegally using mobile numbers.
"If they are found using mobile numbers for fixed services, then they will be contravening the regulations," said Icasa.
"Section 25 of the Regulations stipulates that: A licensee that contravenes these regulations is liable to a fine not less than R300,000 but not exceeding R3,000,000 once off per infringement."
Call centres and spam callers have realised that people are more likely to answer phone calls when they come from mobile numbers.
ISPA said that mobile numbers are a precious resource and should be protected.
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It added that call centres operating from fixed premises should use geographic telephone numbers.
"Firm action must be taken to prevent the unlawful use of mobile number ranges, particularly the older 082, 083, 072, and 073 number ranges that appear more credible," said ISPA regulatory advisor Dominic Cull.
"As cold calls from certain number ranges go unanswered, the unlawful use of mobile numbers by call centres seeking high levels of engagement skyrockets."
"Icasa must act now to stamp out the abuse of mobile numbers and end the high levels of voice call spam being endured by South Africans," said Cull.
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