The quick idea
If you’re getting repeated robocalls or unwanted marketing texts, you don’t need to be a tech expert to document what’s happening. A simple, consistent record is often the most helpful.
What the TCPA generally covers (plain English)
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) is a federal law that restricts certain:
- Robocalls (prerecorded or automated calls)
- Autodialed calls/texts (depending on the technology used)
- Marketing calls/texts without proper consent
The details can be technical, but your job as a consumer is simpler: document what you received and how you responded.
Common scenarios we hear about
- “I never signed up, but I get daily texts.”
- “I opted out and they kept texting.”
- “They call from different numbers every time.”
- “The message is prerecorded.”
- “It’s for someone else, but they won’t stop.”
Your TCPA documentation checklist
1) Screenshot everything
For texts, capture:
- The full message thread
- The phone number or short code
- Any opt-out attempt (“STOP”)
- Any confirmation message
2) Save call logs and voicemails
For calls, save:
- Call log entries (date/time/number)
- Voicemails (especially prerecorded)
- Any callback numbers provided
3) Track frequency in a simple log
A notes app works. Include:
- Date/time
- Number used
- Type (call/text)
- Topic (debt, warranty, solar, political, etc.)
- Whether you answered
4) Document consent (or lack of it)
If you did sign up somewhere, save:
- The webpage or form (if you can)
- Any email confirmation
- The context (contest entry, quote request, purchase)
If you didn’t consent, note that clearly.
What not to do
- Don’t click unknown links in texts
- Don’t provide personal info to “verify” yourself
- Don’t engage in long arguments (it rarely helps)
Opt-out best practices
If it’s a marketing text and you feel safe doing so:
- Reply “STOP” once
- Screenshot the opt-out and any response
If messages continue after opt-out, keep documenting.
If the calls are for someone else
You can respond once:
- “Wrong number. Do not contact this number again.” Then document what happens next.
If you’re receiving repeated robocalls or unwanted texts, Ginsburg Law Group, PC can review your screenshots and call logs and help you understand whether consumer protection laws may apply. Contact us for a free case evaluation – intake@ginsburglawgroup.com.
