Universal Robocall Blocking Database

We propose a system that implements multiple levels of blocking in order to stop robocalls from reaching customers. The first level comes from those who initially received robocalls. Upon receiving a robocall, consumers will press a button to block the number. This will first block the number at the local (individual’s phone) level. Additionally, it will be recorded in a database that the number has been blocked. The database will then keep a tally on the phone number and the number of times a block has been requested. After a predetermined number of block requests have been made, all U.S. carriers will be notified to stop the robodialer’s number from making calls over their networks. This universal block will include exceptions for calling emergency numbers and the service provider, which allows any numbers accidentally blocked to be easily reactivated. The FTC can also opt to sell the blocked phone number to company for a predetermined cost. Additionally, if the company purchasing the number has the number blocked again, they may be subject to larger fines. This will act as a deterrent toward buying numbers for the purposes of automated marketing by driving up the cost of making robocalls.