CRTC executes first inspection warrant as part of telemarketing investigation

[timster]

November 27, 2015 – Ottawa–Gatineau – Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) today announced that it executed an inspection warrant to enter and inspect a property in Brampton, Ontario, on November 24, 2015, as part of an ongoing investigation of a significant telemarketing operation. This company is alleged to be making unauthorized calls to Canadians for the purpose of selling anti-virus software to numbers registered on the National Do Not Call List (DNCL).

The inspection warrant, a first of its kind for the CRTC, was granted by an Ontario Justice of the Peace, and carried out with the help of the Peel Regional Police Services.

The CRTC has a range of tools at its disposal to investigate alleged violations of the Unsolicited Telecommunications Rules, which include the ability to obtain an  inspection warrant to enter and inspect a property, issue request for information letters and conduct onsite inspections.

The CRTC can issue a number of enforcement actions, such as warning letters, citations and notices of violation with administrative monetary penalties to individuals, companies or organizations found to be in violation of the Rules. Additionally, the CRTC's Chief Compliance and Enforcement Officer can discuss corrective actions with the entity in violation of the Rules, which may lead to a settlement that includes an administrative monetary penalty and other measures.

The CRTC does not comment on active investigations, nor does it name the individuals or companies under investigation. The CRTC will publicize the results of its investigations on its website if it issues a settlement or issues a notice of violation or citation.

 

http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?nid=1022319