France will ban unsolicited telemarketing calls starting next week. The move follows years of complaints from the public and a joint call by 11 consumer groups.
The new law aims to protect consumers from intrusive sales pitches and shield vulnerable people from fraudulent commercial practices.
The French parliament has approved the legislation, which allows for fines to be imposed on individuals or companies making these calls. Violations can be reported through a public website. Individuals may be fined up to 75,000 euros ($87,000) per call, with companies facing even higher penalties.