Unwanted spam calls? POPIA allows marketing to EXISTING customers

Clarence Ford interviews Jan Vermeulen, Editor at MyBroadband.

Listen below.

Many South Africans have reported a surge in spam calls throughout July.

After experiencing an influx of these unwanted calls over the past two weeks, MyBroadband conducted a snap poll among its readers.

Over 80% of respondents noted a significant increase in unsolicited direct marketing during this period.

Among the culprits were Blue Label Telecoms, which promoted smartphone contracts for mobile operators, and DStv, Mutual & Federal (Old Mutual), Momentum Metropolitan, and AfriForum.

The Information Regulator and TrueCaller recently informed MyBroadband that insurance companies, debt collectors, mobile operators, political parties, and fraudsters are the most frequent sources of spam calls in South Africa.

"There've been so many data leaks that anybody who wants people's numbers have any amount of databases to work from."

- Jan Vermeulen, Editor – MyBroadband

Vermeulen points out that under POPIA, companies you have a direct relationship with may send you marketing messages without prior consent.

While they must provide an opt-out option, they do not need your permission to market to you directly.

Additionally, financial service providers with rewards programmes often encourage customers to opt in to enhance their rewards.

"There's all kinds of ways that they make sure they comply with POPIA."

- Jan Vermeulen, Editor – MyBroadband

Vermeulen notes that, as of Monday this week, the spam calls on his end have completely stopped.

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.