The YouMail Robocall Index, which tracks robocalls in the U.S., found more than 102,100,000 robocalls were made to the 302 area code in 2017.
At least one expert says the number reflects an expansion in robocalls, many by legitimate businesses.
“This data illustrates a rapid expansion of the use of robocall technology and the toll these abusive calls take on Delaware consumers,” said Margot Saunders, senior counsel at the National Consumer Law Center.
The Federal Trade Commission reported that the number of complaints about robocalls increased from 3.4 million in 2016 to 4.5 million in 2017. In Delaware, more than 27,000 residents complained to the FTC about robocalls and violations to the “Do Not Call Registry” in 2017.
The National Consumer Law Center said regulators are harder on scam callers and softer on legitimate businesses that make illegal calls. In February, for example, Santander and Wells Fargo generated the most robocalls to Delaware phone numbers.
“Rather than petition the FCC for exemptions that weaken robocall protections, companies should focus on following the rules,” said Saunders. “We hope that this FCC will protect consumers against these illegal calls. Maintaining a strong TCPA will benefit consumers and level the playing field for law-abiding businesses.”
