France Bans Unsolicited Telemarketing Calls With Heavy Fines

The French Republic implemented a ban on unsolicited telemarketing calls on August 11, 2026, prohibiting companies from advertising goods and services via cold calls without prior consumer consent. The law, adopted by Parliament in May 2025, replaces the Bloctel opt-out registry, which officials deemed inefficient. Under the new regulations, companies must obtain and maintain written proof of consent, although calls regarding pre-existing contracts remain permitted.

Penalties for violators are severe. Individuals face fines up to €75,000 and companies up to €375,000. Targeting vulnerable individuals can result in five years in prison and fines reaching €500,000. Lawmakers emphasized that calls from abroad are also illegal and urged telecom operators to technically block such scams.

The ban is expected to have international economic repercussions, particularly in Morocco, where a government official warned that up to 50,000 telemarketing jobs could be lost. While consumer advocates characterized the measure as a historic step against harassment, business representatives warned that the law adds significant administrative burdens for local companies.