The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced its intention to take legal action against telemarketers who unlawfully access telecom subscribers’ phone numbers for commercial purposes. The NCC clarified that claims of telemarketers obtaining phone numbers from the commission are untrue.
In a public notice titled ‘Unauthorised Use of Telecom Subscribers’ Phone Numbers and Other Personal Information by Telemarketers,’ signed by NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Professor Umar Danbatta, the commission emphasized its commitment to safeguarding subscriber privacy.
It stated that no service provider or telemarketer is permitted to collect or use subscriber data without explicit consumer consent, except when allowed by law.
The NCC cited various regulations, including Section 35 (1) of the Consumer Code of Practice Regulations, 2007, and Section 9 (1) of the Nigerian Communications (Registration of Communications Subscribers) Regulations, 2022, as well as Section 4.2 (a) & (b) of the NCC’s Internet Code of Practice, to support its stance on data protection.
The commission issued a stern warning to telemarketers engaged in the unauthorized collection and use of subscriber data, stating that those found guilty would face legal consequences, including arrest and prosecution.
Additionally, the NCC encouraged telecom consumers to activate the Do-Not-Disturb (DND) short code, which allows them to manage their subscription to Value Added Services and block unsolicited messages and telemarketing offers. It also urged consumers to report any illegal activities by telemarketers to the NCC for appropriate enforcement actions.
This move by the NCC aims to protect the privacy and data rights of telecom subscribers and ensure that telemarketers operate within the bounds of the law.
