Why the TCPA exists
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) is designed to curb unwanted robocalls and certain automated marketing texts. Many consumers assume nothing can be done—until the calls become nonstop.
This post is about practical steps: how to identify patterns, what to save, and how to protect yourself.
Common TCPA scenarios consumers report
- Repeated marketing calls using an autodialer or prerecorded voice
- Automated texts promoting products/services you didn’t ask for
- Calls to a cell phone without proper consent
- Calls after you asked them to stop
- Calls intended for someone else that keep coming
What to document (the TCPA evidence kit)
Checklist
- Screenshots of call logs showing frequency and dates
- Voicemails (download/save)
- Text messages (screenshots plus export if possible)
- The number(s) calling and any company name mentioned
- Notes about whether you ever gave consent (forms, checkboxes, online leads)
- Any “STOP” replies you sent and any confirmation received
Practical steps to reduce the calls (while preserving evidence)
- Don’t engage in long arguments—keep it simple
- Use “STOP” for texts (if it appears to be a legitimate short code)
- Ask for the caller’s company name and mailing address
- Consider call blocking after you’ve captured enough evidence
- Be careful with online forms that may include consent language
Common misunderstandings
- “Any spam call is illegal.” Not always.
- “If I answered once, I consent forever.” Not necessarily.
- “I have to keep taking calls to prove it.” No—you can document and then block.
If robocalls or texts are disrupting your life, Ginsburg Law Group, PC can review your call/text history and help you understand whether the TCPA may apply.
