Donor Privacy: A Non-Profit's Guide to Auto Dialer Compliance

Posted In | CRM | Help Desk | Auto Dialer | Non Profit Organizations

As a non-profit organization, one of your primary concerns is maintaining the trust and goodwill of your donors. This often includes their privacy, especially when it comes to their contact information. With the increasing use of auto dialers to reach out to potential donors, understanding how to comply with laws and regulations regarding these systems is vital.

 

What is an Auto Dialer?

An auto dialer, also known as an automatic dialer, is a software that automatically dials telephone numbers. Once the call has been answered, the auto dialer either plays a recorded message or connects the call to a live person. In the non-profit world, auto dialers are often used to reach a large number of potential donors in a short amount of time.

 

Understanding the Law

In the United States, auto dialer use is regulated by the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). This law restricts the use of auto dialers and prerecorded voice messages. The law is enforced by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which has established rules and regulations that organizations must follow when using auto dialers.

 

Consent is Key

According to the TCPA, before a non-profit organization can call a potential donor using an auto dialer, it must first obtain the individual's express written consent. This consent must be clear and conspicuous, meaning it cannot be hidden in a lengthy terms and conditions document. Furthermore, the individual must be informed that they are consenting to receive calls dialed by an automatic telephone dialing system.

 

Respecting Donor Privacy

Non-profit organizations must respect the privacy of their potential donors. This means not only complying with the TCPA but also taking additional steps to protect donor privacy. For example, if a potential donor requests not to be contacted again, the organization must honor this request. In addition, non-profits should have a privacy policy in place that outlines how they collect, use, and protect donors' personal information.

 

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with the TCPA can result in significant penalties. The FCC can impose fines ranging from $500 to $1,500 per call or message. In addition, individuals who receive unwanted calls from an auto dialer can sue the offending organization. Therefore, it is in a non-profit's best interest to ensure they are fully compliant with the TCPA.

 

Auto dialers can be a powerful tool for non-profit organizations, allowing them to reach a large number of potential donors quickly and efficiently. However, it is absolutely crucial that these organizations understand and comply with the laws and regulations that govern their use. By doing so, non-profits can maintain their donors' trust, avoid hefty fines, and continue their important work.