OTTAWA–GATINEAU – The CRTC teamed up with Peel Regional Police Services in Ontario on Tuesday to enter and inspect a property in Brampton as part of an ongoing investigation of a “significant telemarketing operation”.
The Commission said Friday that the inspection warrant, a first of its kind for the CRTC, was granted by an Ontario Justice of the Peace. Declining to comment on the active investigation or to name the individuals or companies under investigation, the CRTC pledged to publicize the results if it issues a settlement or issues a notice of violation or citation.
It did say, however, that this company is alleged to be making unauthorized calls to Canadians for the purpose of selling anti-virus software to numbers registered on the national do not call list (DNCL).
The CRTC has the ability to obtain an inspection warrant to enter and inspect a property, issue requests for information letters and conduct onsite inspections during investigations of alleged violations of the unsolicited telecommunications rules. It may also issue enforcement actions, such as warning letters, citations and notices of violation with administrative monetary penalties to individuals, companies or organizations found to be in violation of the rules.
“We are committed to protecting Canadians from unsolicited telecommunications and ensuring that telemarketers comply with the applicable rules”, said CRTC chief compliance and enforcement officer Manon Bombardier, in a statement. “We will not hesitate to use all the tools at our disposal, including executing inspection warrants, in carrying out investigations of suspected violations and to enforce the Rules. I am grateful to our partners at the Peel Regional Police Services for their assistance in this matter."
