Avast ye scurvy bilge rats! The FTC be finally takin' a stand against the scallywags plaguin' our calls!
2024-01-09
Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson: Avast, me hearties! A new port hath been uncovered where a scurvy California scallywag, a Voice over Internet Protocol provider, be usin' crafty means to aid them filthy robocallers, all while avoidin' the FTC's decrees.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has reached a settlement with XCast Labs, a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) provider, after accusing the company of facilitating billions of robocalls. The FTC filed a complaint against XCast Labs, claiming that it aided other companies in navigating around the Do Not Call Registry. As a result, XCast Labs may have to pay a $10 million fine and implement screening measures to ensure compliance with telemarketing laws.XCast Labs is accused of assisting in the making of over a hundred million illegal robocalls. However, the California-based company denies any wrongdoing. The FTC has been investigating the case since 2020 when it sent a letter to VoIP providers, including XCast Labs, reminding them that aiding illegal telemarketers is against the law. In May, the FTC filed a complaint stating that XCast Labs continued to transmit illegal robocalls, some of which involved telemarketers posing as government officials.
In addition to the proposed fine and screening requirements, XCast Labs must sever ties with illegal telemarketers. To protect oneself from robocalls, the FTC recommends registering phone numbers with the National Do Not Call Registry. It also advises using features provided by carriers to identify and block spam calls. Other measures include blocking unknown phone numbers, protecting personal information online, and utilizing third-party apps or carrier services designed to block scam calls.
The settlement with XCast Labs highlights the importance of having multiple layers of security against robocalls, despite the existence of the Do Not Call Registry. The FTC encourages individuals to report instances of illegal robocalls and stay vigilant against such scams.