What Is DNC (Do Not Call)? Definition

Why it matters

Telemarketers must follow both the National Do Not Call Registry and their own internal DNC list. A number can be on the registry and still receive calls in some cases, such as with written permission or an existing business relationship. Some states keep their own lists too. Agents scrub call lists before dialing, because a single call to a listed number can trigger a complaint. Families can add numbers to the registry for free.

Source: donotcall.gov

Where we use this term

Related terms

National Do Not Call Registry: The National Do Not Call Registry is a federal list of phone numbers whose owners asked not to receive telemarketing calls. It is run by the Federal Trade Commission, and registration is free.
Internal DNC List: An internal DNC list is a company's own list of people who said they do not want to be called. Sellers must keep it and honor each request, even if the number is not on the national registry.
Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA): The TCPA is a federal law that limits telemarketing calls, texts, autodialed calls, and prerecorded voice messages. It requires proper consent for many marketing calls and gives consumers a right to sue for violations.
Cold Call: A cold call is an unsolicited call to a person who has not asked to be contacted and has no relationship with the caller. Telemarketing laws limit cold calls, and many are banned for numbers on the Do Not Call list.
Outbound Call: An outbound call is a call that a business or agent places to a consumer. In insurance, outbound calling is limited by federal and state telemarketing rules, including Do Not Call lists and consent requirements.

All 241 terms

Do Not Call (DNC)

Why it matters

Where we use this term

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