FCC Cracks Down on Robo-Calls

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed an $82 million fine against a man who has allegedly made millions of automated sales calls.  The FCC has accused Philip Roesel and Best Insurance Contracts dba Wilmington Insurance Quotes, of violating the Truth in Caller ID act.  According to the FCC, Roesel and his company made 21 million automated calls, also known as robocalls, while attempting to sell health insurance.

21 Million Robo Calls

The FCC says: "In December 2016, a medical paging provider called Spok complained to Commission staff that robocalling campaigns were disrupting its network. Using information provided by Spok to connect these calls to Mr. Roesel, the FCC's Enforcement Bureau subpoenaed Mr. Roesel's call records from October 2016 through January 2017.  Based on these records, FCC investigators verified 82,106 health insurance telemarketing calls made during that time used falsified caller ID information. These calls are the basis for today's proposed fine."  Besides the robocalls being illegal, the disruption of the medical paging service’s network could have prevented medical care providers from being able to help their patients.

Allegedly, Roesel’s robocalls focused on low-income families, as well as the elderly and the sick.  The focus on these vulnerable populations is especially unconscionable. FCC commissioners quoted Roesel as saying “the dumber, the more broke, the better” in regard to whom he targeted with his robocalls.  He also allegedly joked and bragged to his coworkers that his actions were minor violates and likened his actions to driving over the speed limit.

FCC is Cracking Down

The FCC is increasing its efforts to crackdown on robocalls.  Earlier in the year, the FCC issues a $120 million fine against a different robocaller.  FCC Chairman Ajit Pai stated, “[This fine] sends another message to illegal robocallers.  We will do everything in our power to put you out of business.”

If you have been contacted by robocallers or have received unsolicited sales calls, please contact one of our offices and set up a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys today to see if we can help you.