FCC votes to allow phone carriers to block robocalls by defa

[Tennesseer]

Something good out of the FCC.

FCC votes to allow phone carriers to block robocalls by default

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted on Thursday to allow phone carriers to block suspicious calls by default in an effort to bolster industry efforts to filter out robocalls and scammers.

The proposal would also let phone companies offer their customers the option of blocking any numbers that are not pre-approved, a service that could help protect elderly consumers from scams and telemarketers.

“We expect phone companies will move quickly to use this tool and help consumers block unwanted robocalls,” FCC Chairman Ajit Pai wrote in USA Today. “Among other things, default call-blocking will reduce the costs of handling the robocalls that flood their networks and save them grief by limiting customer complaints.”

Complete article here: FCC votes to allow phone carriers to block robocalls by default

[Tiny]

So, how much do you think the monthly charge will be for this service?        Don't the phone companies make money from all the robocalls (even if no one picks up the call OR falls for it and sends money?)  Aren't robo calls to the phone carriers kinda like how "credit/debit card transactions" are to the Credit Card companies?   A "behind the scenes money maker" that the consumer isn't aware of? 

[Tiny]

From the article: 

he proposal would also let phone companies offer their customers the option of blocking any numbers that are not pre-approved, a service that could help protect elderly consumers from scams and telemarketers.

And how is that useful? It sounds like they are offering a service that blocks ALL calls except those in the contact list you set up. I was late to getting a cell phone - and I started "blocking" the numbers that I know are NOT from someone I want to talk to... and I was blocking 3 or 4 a week... each and every week. I stopped doing it because it's like trying to empty the ocean with a bucket and an teaspoon.

And the article itself quotes some 'cons' to this regulation... since the consumer will have to PAY for the service.

This is just a money grab by the phone companies.

I looked into apps or services - and yes you can right now, pay, and get the service were all numbers except those in your contact list are blocked.   That's not helpful to me... everytime I have some service or one time need to receive a call - I have to PRE set up the # so my phone will ring.   That would have been a clusterfuck when I was trying to coordinate getting the water shut off to my house (the City had to do it) to coordinate with the plumber who was trying to stem the flow of water into my basement.  Due to problems with the buffalo box - I had calls from 4 different City workers phones and 2 different plumber phones in one day - all working on my Basement Water Feature.     So, no, I don't want to pre-set up one time use phone numbers. 

But, back to the service in the article:  I guess now the service providers can 'bundle' that service into your package for a cost.

Meh.