FCC and Senate teaming up to take down robocall scams

"Robocalls represent the biggest category of complaint that we get from consumers," said Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai. He says the FCC is empowering cell carriers to block texts and calls that look suspicious. They are also slapping scammers with hefty fines. "The largest fines in the FCC's history have been imposed over the last 18 months to go after robocallers who are using this as a business model," said Chairman Pai. Outgoing Senate Commerce Committee Chairman John Thune (R-SD) is working to get the FCC more resources. His bipartisan "TRACED Act" would allow the FCC to go after "robocallers" for up to three years after a call is placed. In addition, Chairman Thune says fines are not enough; he wants a looming threat of criminal prosecution. If ChairmanThune's legislation doesn't pass before the end of the year, he'll have to try again in the new Congress.