Do you also jump when an unknown number pops up on your screen while you're preparing dinner? Between "exceptional" electricity and gas deals and "unmissable" insurance offers, sales calls have become a part of our daily lives. But a recent announcement could change everything… A date has finally been set, and it promises a real turning point. So, what's really going to happen?
August 11, 2026: The end of unsolicited telephone marketing
It's official: Law No. 2025-594 of June 30, 2025, marks a major change. From August 11, 2026, a company will no longer be able to call you for commercial purposes without your explicit and prior consent.
In practical terms, we're moving from a system of opting out (like Bloctel) to a mandatory opt-in system. Until now, you had to register to block calls. Tomorrow, it will be the other way around: your number will no longer be able to be contacted by default.
And be warned, vague consent is out of the question! It must be freely given, specific, informed, unambiguous, and revocable. Pre-ticked boxes or clauses buried in terms and conditions will no longer suffice. In short, if you haven't given your explicit consent, it's a no.
A real earthquake for sales prospecting in France.
Which calls will actually be banned?
One might wonder: will all the calls just magically disappear?
From August 11, 2026, calls aimed at selling electricity or gas contracts, insurance, internet or mobile subscriptions, renovation work or any other service intended for individuals, without prior agreement, will become illegal.
When you consider that approximately 7 out of 10 French people report receiving at least one sales call per week, you realize the scale of the problem. This reform clearly aims to put an end to widespread annoyance.
But your phone won't become completely silent.
The following will always be allowed:
- Calls related to an existing contract (for example, your current insurer).
- The companies for which you have given explicit consent.
- Non-commercial calls: government agencies, schools, appointment reminders or healthcare professionals.
The goal is not to cut off all communication, but to give control back to consumers.
Why wait until August 2026?
This is a question that often comes up: why not implement the measure immediately?
The answer is primarily technical. August 11, 2026, marks the end of the contract between the French government and the Bloctel operator. Setting this date avoids financial penalties and gives companies time to adapt their databases and internal procedures.
Until then, the current rules continue to apply:
Calls are only permitted from Monday to Friday.
Scheduled hours: from 10am to 1pm and from 2pm to 8pm.
Prohibited on weekends and public holidays.
A maximum of four calls per professional over thirty days.
This framework remains imperfect, but it already allows you to assert your rights in case of abuse.
What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Good news: the law provides for deterrent sanctions.
Companies that fail to comply with the consent requirement risk fines of up to 20% of their annual turnover in France. For individuals, the penalty can reach €500,000.
The checks will be carried out by the DGCCRF. This will send a strong signal.
However, some practices will remain more difficult to regulate, particularly calls originating from centers located abroad or using spoofed numbers. Vigilance will therefore remain necessary.
Our tips for peace of mind right now
While waiting for 2026, you can already significantly reduce the nuisances.
First step: activate spam filters on your smartphone. On both iPhones and Android devices, you can filter unknown calls, block private numbers, and enable automatic identification of unwanted calls. Activate these options in your phone's settings so they are always active. It's simple and effective.
Also remember to stay registered on Bloctel, which is operational until August 2026.
For suspicious SMS or calls, you can report them to 33700: this free service allows you to transmit the number to the platform for combating voice and SMS spam.
Finally, be vigilant when participating in online contests, requesting free quotes, or using comparison websites. Before submitting a form, always check the boxes related to marketing communications and uncheck those that authorize the transmission of your data if you do not wish to be contacted.
August 11, 2026 will mark a real turning point with the ban on unsolicited sales calls , but in the meantime, every reflex counts to regain serenity at the end of the phone line.
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