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Media Contact:
Will Wiquist, (202) 418-0509
will.wiquist@fcc.gov
For Immediate Release
FCC FINES ROBOCALLING PLATFORM ALMOST $3 MILLION FOR
ILLEGAL CALLS
Company Facilitated Unwanted Robocalls Despite Commission Warning
WASHINGTON, July 13, 2017 – The Federal Communications Commission today issued a $2.88 million
fine against a New Mexico-based company, Dialing Services, for facilitating unlawful robocalls.
Robocallers used Dialing Services’ calling technology platform to make millions of illegal robocalls to
mobile phones without express prior consent from consumers.
In 2013, the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau formally warned Dialing Services that it could be held liable for
robocalls its customers were making in violation of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. The TCPA
prohibits autodialed phone calls, robocalls, or texts to wireless phones in most instances unless the caller
has the prior express consent of the called party. Following the citation, the Bureau investigated and
determined that Dialing Services’ platform was still being used to make unlawful robocalls. The fine
reflects the Commission’s determination that Dialing Services was involved in making 180 unlawful
robocalls after being warned to stop.
The Commission has made clear that a third party, such as a platform provider, may be liable under the
TCPA if the platform provider is so involved in the placement of a call that it essentially made the call.
The Commission determined that Dialing Services played a significant role in the illegal robocalls, and
thus should be held liable for violating the TCPA. For example, Dialing Services’ platform automatically
blocks the originating telephone number and enables caller ID spoofing.
Consumer complaints are an essential tool in the FCC’s enforcement efforts. To file a complaint with the
FCC, go to https://consumercomplaints.fcc.gov/, call (888) 225-5322 for voice, (888) 835-5322 for TTY;
fax (866) 418-0232; or by writing us at: Federal Communications Commission, Consumer and
Governmental Affairs Bureau, Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division, 445 12th Street, S.W.,
Washington, DC 20554. Information on robocall rules and tips for consumers are available at:
www.fcc.gov/robocalls
Action by the Commission July 13, 2017 by Forfeiture Order (FCC 17-97). Chairman Pai and
Commissioner Clyburn approving. Commissioner O’Rielly dissenting. Chairman Pai and Commissioner
O’Rielly issuing separate statements.
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Office of Media Relations: (202) 418-0500
ASL Videophone: (844) 432-2275
TTY: (888) 835-5322
Twitter: @FCC
www.fcc.gov/office-media-relations
This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official
action. See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).