France bans unsolicited telemarketing calls

France has implemented a nationwide ban on unsolicited telemarketing calls, requiring companies to obtain explicit, prior consent before making promotional phone calls. This regulation aims to protect consumer privacy and combat fraud, as unsolicited calls are often used as entry points for scams.

Under the new rules, exceptions are made for companies with existing contracts with the recipient or for specific services like print subscription sales. The legislation also marks the end of the Bloctel service, which previously managed an opposition list for telemarketing.

While consumer advocacy groups like Que Choisir have praised the move as a victory for the 97% of French citizens who report being annoyed by such calls, the decision has faced criticism. Some government officials have expressed concern that the restrictions could lead to the loss of up to 50,000 jobs within the sales sector.