Regulations tighten up on robocalls

Companies need written permission to robocall, auto text you

DETROIT – Robocalls are definitely among the most annoying calls you receive whether on the traditional land line or your cell phone.

"They're annoying," said one consumer. "It's like an invasion of privacy," said another man.

Now, new rules are in effect and they're designed to make it more difficult for marketers to interrupt your day.

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act has been around for a long time. The act has banned robocalls without consent since 1991 will says that consent must be in writing. It will apply to auto dial and auto texts as well.

Some companies are already looking for ways to get around the new law. Some have added new language to their online request for information forms.

An example of one such company's form reads, " I consent to be called back from Gaylord Security at the phone number provided, including cellular, which may be generated from an automated phone dialing system."

This past summer one couple thought they were signing up for a free cruise, but they were also giving permission for a company to market to them.

"I've never seen that before, " said the victim.

Burying callback consent in fine print will now be forbidden.

"It can't be hidden. It must be clear and conspicuous on the page," said one consumer expert.