HARRISBURG – Telemarketers would be prohibited from ‘spoofing’ phone numbers to fool consumers under a bill approved, 48-0, by the Pennsylvania Senate this week, according to state Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23), who supported the measure.
‘Spoofing’ is the practice of making it appear that a call originates from the same area as the recipient. It’s a common tactic used by telemarketers and scammers. Senate Bill 764 would prevent any individual or entity from engaging in caller ID spoofing in order to defraud, cause harm or obtain anything of value from another person.
“It’s more than just a nuisance,” Sen. Yaw said. “It’s a deceptive tactic and we must go after these telemarketers who relentlessly harass our constituents day and night. I have received many of these calls myself.”
The bill includes exceptions for certain law enforcement agencies, as well as telecommunications providers offering relevant information to customers.
The legislation would also prohibit telemarketing and robocalls between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.
Senate Bill 764 has been sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.
For more state-related news and information, visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or on Facebook and Twitter @SenatorGeneYaw.
CONTACT:
Rita Zielonis, Chief of Staff
(717) 787-3280