Texas Real Estate Brokerage Sales Apprentice Education (SAE) Practice Exam

Which of the following actions can consumers take to control telemarketing calls?

1. Only respond to telemarketers

2. Ask to be removed from calling lists

3. Ignore all telemarketing calls

4. Provide fake information if contacted

The correct answer is: Ask to be removed from calling lists

Consumers have the right to ask to be removed from telemarketing calling lists, making this action a factual and effective approach to controlling unwanted calls. When a consumer explicitly requests not to receive further calls from a specific telemarketer, reputable companies are obligated to comply. This practice is supported by regulations like the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and the National Do Not Call Registry, which provide consumers with the ability to limit telemarketing calls they receive. Although responding to telemarketers or ignoring calls might seem like ways to handle the situation, those actions do not provide a direct and proactive measure to stop future calls. Providing fake information is not advisable and can lead to more serious issues, as it may violate laws and worsen the telemarketing experience instead of reducing it. Therefore, asking to be removed from calling lists effectively utilizes the consumer's rights and available legal protections to gain control over telemarketing interactions.