'Blighting the lives of millions': Huge fines set to tackle cold callers

Companies found to be causing nuisance calls and texts could be fined up to half a million pounds.

17:34 25 February 2015

Tough new regulations will make strong sanctions an easy reality when it comes to cracking down on and fining cold calling companies.

From 6 April the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) won't have to prove that unwanted messages are causing a "substantial damage or substantial distress" before they take action.

It's got the backing of the government. Digital economy minister Ed Vaizey stated: "For far too long companies have bombarded people with unwanted marketing calls and texts, and escaped punishment because they did not cause enough harm.

"This change will make it easier for the Information Commissioner's Office to take action against offenders and send a clear message to others that harassing consumers with nuisance calls or texts is just not on."

Which? executive director Richard Lloyd, said: "These calls are an everyday menace blighting the lives of millions so we want the regulator to send a clear message by using their new powers to full effect without delay.

"It's also good news that the Government has listened to our call and is looking into how senior executives can be held to account if their company makes nuisance calls."