Congress puts an end to spam calls: when it would come into effect and everything we know about its ban

Congress passed a law to eliminate spam calls, a problem that affects millions of users. The vote, carried out in the first instance, had the unanimous support of all legislators; However, the rule must still go through the board of spokespersons, pending a second vote in the plenary session. According to its main promoters, this regulation aims to protect consumers from unsolicited calls and improve customer experience.

Although the news has been received positively, the Peruvian Customer Experience Association (APEXO) has expressed concern about the impact of this law on employment. According to his estimates, more than 20 thousand people who work in call centers could become unemployed.

Spam calls: what does the rule approved in Congress say?

The new regulations prohibit companies from carrying out unwanted calls, send text messages or emails not requested by the client. This measure modifies Law 29571, Consumer Protection and Defense Code, reinforcing protection against telephone spam. The law approved in the first instance establishes significant fines for companies that fail to comply with these provisions, with sanctions that can reach up to S/2 million. It should be noted that this law, if enacted, will have Indecopi as the only supervisory, executing and sanctioning entity.

Previously, the law allowed a first contact to request authorization to send advertising information; However, the new rules eliminate this exception, forcing companies to obtain user consent before any contact. This modification responds to numerous consumer complaints about constant interruptions and lack of privacy.

When will the ban on spam calls go into effect?

The vote taken in the Congress on the prohibition of the so-called spam calls It was the first of two. Its ratification will depend on the speed with which this norm passes through the board of spokespersons. Once this occurs, the rule will have to be included in the plenary agenda, where the date and time for its vote will be defined. If approved, other procedures will remain to make it official.

The law will take effect after its promulgation by the president Alejandro Soto and its publication in Official Gazette El Peruano. This process can take several months, depending mainly on the procedures required. Once enacted, companies will have to adjust their practices to comply with the new regulations.

Call centers would be the main affected

The Peruvian Customer Experience Association (APEXO) has warned about the impact that this law will have on employment. More than 20 thousand people working in call centers and telemarketing activities could lose their jobs due to the ban on spam calls. APEXUS argues that this measure will negatively affect the development of commercial advertising and the formal activity of the sector.

APEXO has also pointed out that the ban limits the right to information of consumers, who must take the initiative to find out about the offers and promotions available.