The National Consumer Commission (NCC) of South Africa has launched the National Opt-Out Registry, a free, government-administered system designed to block direct marketers from contacting consumers through unwanted calls, texts, emails, and other electronic communication. This move aims to provide relief to South Africans who have been inundated with spam communication. According to recent statistics, South Africans received 17.47 billion spam calls and 3.71 billion spam SMSes between January and June 2026.
The registry is being rolled out in phases, with consumers expected to be able to register and block direct marketers from May 2027. The NCC will administer the registry at no cost to consumers, providing them with a central platform to manage unwanted direct marketing. This system will enable consumers to pre-emptively block direct marketers from engaging them in unwanted communication.
Direct marketers will be required to register on the system and cleanse their marketing lists monthly before running any campaign, ensuring that consumers who have opted out are not contacted. They can register from September 15, 2026, until December 2026. This will give them a chance to adjust their marketing strategies and comply with the new regulations.
Direct marketers who fail to register after the registration period may be in contravention of section 11 of the Consumer Protection Act, read with the Consumer Protection Act Amendment Regulations. The NCC has emphasized the importance of compliance, and marketers who do not register may face consequences.
The launch of the National Opt-Out Registry comes as spam communication continues to rise in South Africa. The NCC has reported a significant increase in spam calls and SMSes in recent years, causing frustration for many consumers. This new system aims to alleviate this problem and provide consumers with more control over their communication.
The NCC will run a sustained consumer education programme and publish further guidance for consumers and direct marketers. This will ensure that all parties are aware of their rights and responsibilities under the new system. The education programme will help consumers understand how to use the registry and how to protect themselves from unwanted marketing.
The National Opt-Out Registry is a significant step forward in protecting consumers from unwanted marketing communication. With the registry, consumers will have a central platform to manage their communication preferences and block direct marketers. The system is expected to be fully operational by May 2027, giving consumers a welcome reprieve from spam calls and texts.
Key points
- The National Opt-Out Registry will be administered by the NCC at no cost to consumers.
- Direct marketers will be required to register on the system and cleanse their marketing lists monthly.
- Consumers will be able to register and block direct marketers from May 2027.
