TPS launches new service to help minimise nuisance mobile phone calls

A new service has been launched that allows users to block nuisance calls to mobile phones by sending a text message to the Telephone Preference Service (TPS).

Mobile phone users can now add their number to the TPS ‘do not call’ database by texting ‘TPS’ and their email address to 78070.

It is currently illegal for organisations to make unsolicited sales and marketing calls to numbers registered with the TPS, unless they have a person's consent to do so.

However, Ofcom figures show that 18.5 million landline numbers (around 85%) are registered, compared to just 2.9 million mobile numbers (3%), and an Ofcom survey suggested that, while 88% of people know they can register landline numbers, only 48% know that mobile numbers can also be added to the database.

John Mitchison, head of the TPS, said: ‘Rogue callers operate illegally and against the interests of ordinary people.

‘Texting will make it easier for people to register their mobile numbers on the TPS, which is the only official no-call list, and help us stamp out rogue callers once and for all by giving the Information Commissioner more ammunition to prosecute these cases.’

Users who text to register from their mobiles will receive a text reply from the TPS confirming that their number has been successfully added to its database, and should notice a gradual reduction in unsolicited sales and marketing voice calls after a few days.

However, it can take up to 28 days for the service to become fully effective, and it will not block nuisance text messages.