France implements stricter telemarketing consent laws

New regulations in France have introduced stricter rules regarding telemarketing, requiring professionals to obtain prior, explicit consent from consumers before making commercial calls. This consent must be free, specific, informed, and revocable at any time, with a maximum duration of one year.

Despite these legal measures, reports indicate a resurgence in unsolicited calls. Challenges to the law's effectiveness include the difficulty of tracking anonymous callers, the complexity of regulating contact platforms, and the struggle to penalize international entities. While regulatory bodies like the CNIL and DGCCRF have implemented reporting mechanisms and sanctions, consumer associations continue to report persistent harassment.

The new framework replaces the Bloctel system. Enforcement is already active, evidenced by a recent €1.1 million administrative fine imposed on an SFR subsidiary for non-compliance with previous regulations.