Credit One Bank will pay $14 million for making robocalls without permission for years so you can reclaim your share

In today’s digital age, phone calls have become an important part of our lives. But when a company makes frequent harassing calls to you without your permission, it is not just an inconvenience but a violation of your right to privacy. Recently, a similar big case has come to light in the US, in which Credit One Bank has to pay a hefty fine of $14 million The reason? – Making robocalls to millions of people without permission for years.

This news is a warning not only for the people of America but also for consumers all over the world that companies calling you repeatedly without your consent can cost you heavily. Also, if you are affected in this case, you can also claim your share of this fine. Let’s understand this whole matter in detail.

What are robocalls and why do they become a problem?

Robocall means making thousands of phone calls simultaneously through a computer or automated system, which often contain a recorded message. Many companies use it to promote their products or services. But the problem arises when these calls are made without permission.

There is a law in America called Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), which clearly states that it is mandatory to take consent before calling anyone for marketing or advertising. Companies have to pay heavy fines for violating this law.

Credit One Bank case

Credit One Bank is a well-known credit card provider in America. According to complaints, the bank made automatic calls to millions of consumers for several years without permission. Many of these calls were also made to those who had no transactions with the bank.

These calls contained pre-recorded messages, in which customers were appealed to make payments, update accounts or use other services of the bank. Many people complained that they were getting disturbed by these repeated calls and despite asking to stop the calls, this continued.

Court decision

After a long legal battle, the court held that the bank had violated the TCPA law. The court ordered that Credit One Bank must create a settlement fund totaling $14 million, from which the affected people will be compensated.

A large portion of this amount will be given to those who complained of receiving unauthorized calls from the bank. The rest of the amount will go to legal fees and administrative expenses.

Can you also get a share in this settlement?

If you have also received unauthorized robocalls from Credit One Bank between 2017 and 2023, then you can claim for this settlement. To claim, you have to provide your name, contact details and proof of the call (such as phone records or bills).

In the US, in such cases, compensation can usually range from $50 to $500 per person, depending on how many people claim in total and how the funds are distributed.

Claim Process

• Go to the official settlement website – you will find the claim form there.
• Fill in the required information – your name, address, phone number and other important details.
• Attach proof – If you have call records, screenshots or phone bill entries, upload them too.
• Submit before the deadline – The deadlines are strict in such cases. Missing the deadline can cost you the right to get compensation.

Importance of this decision

This case is not limited to just one bank. It is a warning to all companies that making any call, email or message without the consent of consumers can bring serious legal consequences. It is also an example for consumers to be aware of their rights and raise their voice against any kind of harassment.

Laws related to robocalls in the US

The TCPA law was introduced in the US in 1991. This law states that:

• Consent must be taken before making telemarketing calls to any person.
• It is illegal to call a number registered in the ‘Do Not Call Registry’.
• A fine of $500 to $1,500 can be imposed for each violation.

Situation in India

In India too, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has started the Do Not Disturb (DND) service. In this, companies cannot make promotional calls to registered mobile numbers. However, many consumers still complain about spam calls. In India too, strict fines can be imposed on such cases, but its process is slower than in the US.

Ways to avoid such a problem in future

• Register for DND service – Whether you are in India or the US, register your number in the ‘Do Not Call’ list.
• File a complaint – If you receive calls without permission, complain to the concerned regulatory authority.
• Use a call blocking app – like Truecaller or your phone’s built-in block feature.
• Know your rights – every country has different laws against such calls, understand them.

Conclusion

The $14 million fine on Credit One Bank is a victory for consumer rights. It proves that if companies don’t follow the rules, they can have to pay a heavy price. If you are a victim of such a case, don’t stay silent — claim your rights. This news also teaches us that in this age of technology where marketing has become easier, privacy protection has also become equally important.

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