France has banned unsolicited telemarketing calls under a new law aimed at protecting consumers from intrusive sales pitches and shielding vulnerable people from fraudulent commercial practices. While several countries have tried opt-out systems, France is hoping more muscular opt-in rules will be more effective. Previously in France, people who wanted to avoid marketing calls had to register their number with a government-run service, but consumer groups said some call centers ignored the list. Now businesses are prohibited from contacting consumers without their prior consent, and that consent can be withdrawn at any time. Individuals who make illegal calls can be fined up to €75,000 ($87,000) per call, while companies can face fines of up to €375,000 ($435,000) per call.
