EXEMPTIONS, VIOLATIONS AND SAFE PRACTICES

Understanding exemptions
Telemarketing calls are calls that solicit sales of goods or services. There are a few types of calls not affected by the Do Not Call Registry. That is, you may receive these types of telemarketing calls even though your telephone number is listed on the registry.

Reporting violations
Telemarketers may not place calls to telephone numbers listed on the Do Not Call Registry and are required to check the registry every 31 days for newly enrolled numbers. These companies are also required to register with the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission before placing any telemarketing calls to South Dakotans.

If your telephone number has been listed on the registry for at least 31 days and you receive a call from a telemarketer, you may report the violation to the South Dakota PUC, the Federal Trade Commission or the Federal Communications Commission. Complaints must include the date of the call and the company's name or telephone number.

Protecting yourself
There are numerous federal and state telemarketing laws in place to protect consumers. Being informed is your best defense against fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices that can take place over the telephone. Following is a sampling of standards of conduct for telemarketing calls.