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Constant annoying advertising calls? They are usually prohibited

The phone rings, and on the other end someone wants to talk you into a contract, a prize draw or a new tariff? Such advertising calls without your prior consent are impermissible, and you do not have to accept a contract slipped in over the phone.

Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:

Prohibit the advertising

Your chances of getting your money back

Advertising calls to consumers are prohibited without their prior express consent (§ 7 UWG); they count as an unreasonable nuisance. You can report violations to the Federal Network Agency, which can impose fines.
If a contract was talked into you over the phone, you generally have a right of revocation. For certain contracts (for example electricity/gas) a confirmation solution applies: they only become effective if you confirm them in text form.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Document the call

    Note the date, time, company/number and content of the call.

  2. 2

    2. Prohibit the advertising

    Expressly object to the telephone advertising and demand not to be contacted again.

  3. 3

    3. Revoke the contract

    If a contract was concluded, revoke it within the deadline (generally 14 days).

  4. 4

    4. Report to the authority

    Report unlawful advertising calls to the Federal Network Agency; this helps stop repeat offenders.

Frequently asked questions

Are advertising calls allowed?

To consumers only with prior express consent. Without it, telephone advertising is prohibited and counts as an unreasonable nuisance (§ 7 UWG). You can object to the advertising and report unlawful calls to the Federal Network Agency, which can punish such violations with fines.

Do I have to pay for a contract concluded over the phone?

Not without checking. As a rule you have a right of revocation (usually 14 days). For certain contracts, such as those for electricity and gas, a confirmation solution also applies: they only come into being once you confirm them afterwards in text form. So you can fend off a slipped-in contract.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.