Proposed FCC Rules Aim To Block Illegal Robotexts

March 3, 2023 - FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has proposed new rules that would require wireless carriers to block SMS robotext messages, which are automated texts sent en masse by telemarketers and scammers.

The proposed rules would also require carriers to block texts from phone numbers on the FCC's Do-Not-Originate list, which includes numbers that are frequent targets for spoofing and for which the owner has confirmed that the number is not used for mass sms texting.

In addition, the rules look to extend the FCC's existing Do-Not-Call registry protections to SMS messages.

The FCC will vote on the proposed rules at its March open meeting. If approved, the rules would help protect consumers from potentially millions of unwanted texts and potentially harmful scams.