Spam calls: New opt-out registry to launch
Spam calls might be a thing of the past with the introduction of new laws and regulations in South Africa.
Spam calls can be frustrating and annoying, but help is on the way.
The South African government is introducing new laws to tackle unwanted direct marketing calls.
According to My Broadband, Parks Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, has proposed an opt-out registry for direct marketing, which is set to launch in the 2025/26 financial year.
This registry will allow consumers to restrict or block unwanted communication from direct marketers.
Here's how it will work:
Opt-out registry
Consumers can upload their details to the registry to block direct marketing calls.Direct marketer registration
All direct marketers must register on the system and "cleanse" their lists before running a campaign.Valid for 30 days
A cleansed consumer list will be valid for 30 calendar days.
The new registry is a significant improvement over the existing national opt-out registry offered by the Direct Marketing Association of South Africa (DMASA), which only applies to its members.
Tougher penalties for offenders
The Information Regulator has also warned that offenders could face fines of up to R10 million or jail time for contravening the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
In February 2024, the regulator decided that telemarketing amounts to electronic communication and must be regulated under POPIA.
What you can do
If you're receiving unwanted direct marketing calls, you can:
Register on the opt-out registry: Once the new registry is launched, you can upload your details to block direct marketing calls.
Report offenders: If you receive unsolicited calls, you can report the company to the National Consumer Commission.
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