FCC Creates Reassigned Numbers Database to Combat Unwanted Robocalls

The Federal Communications Commission adopted new rules to establish a reassigned numbers database that will reduce the number of unwanted phone calls Americans receive. The new rules establish a single, comprehensive database with information provided by phone companies that callers will be able to use to avoid calling reassigned numbers. Callers using the database will be able to find out if telephone numbers assigned to consumers who want their calls have been disconnected and made eligible for reassignment. Any such numbers can then be purged from their call lists, thereby decreasing the number of unwanted calls to consumers. To further encourage callers to use the database, the Commission is providing callers a safe harbor from liability for any calls to reassigned numbers caused by database error.