Robocalls and spam calls are the top consumer complaint in the US. Even with the Do Not Call Registry, scam calls continue, costing Americans billions every year. Many people consider call blocking devices to reduce these calls—but are they legal?
The answer is yes. Landline call blocking devices are completely legal in the US, and in fact, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) encourage their use as part of consumer protection.
Are Call Blocking Devices Legal in the US?
Yes, call blockers are legal across the United States.
The FCC specifically allows phone companies and consumers to use call blocking technologies to stop unwanted calls. In 2019, the FCC even passed rules to encourage carriers to provide robocall-blocking tools by default.
Devices such as CPR Call Blocker are widely available, compatible with major US landline providers, and used legally by millions of households.
Summary: Call blocking devices are fully legal in the US and are encouraged by the FCC and FTC to help combat robocalls and scams.
Why Are Call Blocking Devices Legal in the US?
Here’s why regulators allow and promote them:
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Consumer protection: They prevent scams and fraud.
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Support for seniors: They protect elderly Americans who rely on landlines.
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No telecom interference: Devices filter calls but don’t disrupt networks.
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Alignment with FCC goals: Reducing robocalls is one of the FCC’s top priorities.
The FTC’s 2024 Consumer Sentinel report showed that 60% of fraud reports involved phone calls, making call blockers an essential line of defence.
Summary: Call blockers are legal because they support consumer protection, protect seniors, and align with FCC efforts to reduce robocalls.
What Should You Know Before Using a Call Blocking Device in the US?
Although legal, here are important things to consider:
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Caller ID required: Devices need Caller ID service from your provider.
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They can’t stop all spoofed calls: Some may still slip through.
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Compatibility matters: Choose devices compatible with your carrier (AT&T, Verizon, Spectrum, etc.).
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Report scams anyway: Even with blockers, report suspicious calls to the FTC or FCC.
The FCC also provides resources for identifying and reporting illegal spoofed calls.
Summary: Call blockers are legal and useful, but require Caller ID, carrier compatibility, and should be combined with scam reporting.
Conclusion
Landline call blocking devices are legal in the US and are even recommended by the FCC and FTC as a frontline defence against robocalls and scams. For families—especially with seniors—they provide added security and peace of mind.
Explore our range of call blockers to protect your home.
FAQs
Q: Are call blockers legal in every US state?
A: Yes, they are federally approved by the FCC.
Q: Do call blockers interfere with 911?
A: No, they only block unwanted incoming calls.
Q: Do I still need the Do Not Call Registry?
A: Yes, it reduces legal telemarketing, while blockers stop illegal robocalls.
Q: Are call blockers compatible with VoIP lines?
A: Many are, but always check compatibility with your carrier.
