Businesses that generate so-called 'silent calls' could be fined up to £50,000, under plans announced by the Department of Trade and Industry.
Silent calls are generated by call centres which use automatic dialling machines to make multiple telephone calls. When an operator is not available, the call is ended, meaning that the recipient hears silence at the end of the line.
Telecoms regulator Ofcom is calling for companies to leave their details and a telephone number so that the calls can be traced.
Earlier this year, the Government announced that companies providing premium rate phone services will face fines of up to £250,000 if they break the rules.
Alan Johnson, trade and industry secretary, said, 'Customers deserve proper protection from companies making excessive silent calls'.
'By increasing the maximum fines from £5,000 to £50,000, we are showing how determined we are to crack down on the distress nuisance calls cause the public, especially elderly and vulnerable people.'
Date:1 November 2005
|
