Uruguay’s ‘Do Not Call’ Registry Sees Significant Growth in Subscriber Numbers
Montevideo, Uruguay – The Uruguayan national “No Me Llame” (Do Not Call) registry has experienced a substantial increase in registrations, reaching 422,117 users as of February 2026, according to data released by the Unidad Reguladora de Servicios de Comunicaciones (URSEC). This represents a rise of 57,000 users compared to the same period in 2025, signaling a growing demand among citizens for greater control over unsolicited commercial communications. The registry aims to protect privacy and reduce the volume of telemarketing and advertising calls and text messages received by individuals.
The increasing adoption of the registry reflects a broader global trend towards consumer empowerment and data privacy. As telemarketing tactics become more persistent and sophisticated, individuals are increasingly seeking ways to limit unwanted contact. The Uruguayan initiative provides a centralized mechanism for citizens to exercise their right to opt-out of commercial solicitations, offering a degree of respite from intrusive marketing practices. The rise in registrations also suggests increased awareness of the service and its benefits among the Uruguayan population.
How the ‘No Me Llame’ Registry Works
The ‘No Me Llame’ registry, established through Resolution N° 275/023, allows individuals to register their fixed-line and mobile phone numbers to block commercial calls and SMS messages. Registration is free and can be completed directly through the individual’s telecommunications operator – Antel, Claro, or Movistar – either online, by phone, or in person. URSEC provides information and guidance on the registration process and also allows users to check if their line is already registered.
Once a number is registered, companies are legally obligated to refrain from contacting it for commercial purposes. However, it’s important to note that certain types of organizations are exempt from the registry’s restrictions. These include charitable organizations, political groups, debt collectors, and organizations conducting surveys. This exemption is consistent with similar “Do Not Call” registries in other countries, such as the United States. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) National Do Not Call Registry, for example, also allows calls from these types of entities.
Increased Scrutiny of Telemarketing Practices
The growth in registry subscriptions coincides with increased scrutiny of telemarketing practices and data privacy regulations globally. Consumers are becoming more vigilant about how their personal information is collected and used, and are demanding greater transparency and control. This trend is driving regulatory bodies to strengthen consumer protection laws and enforce stricter penalties for companies that violate these regulations.
According to URSEC data, 199 companies consulted the registry in February 2026, a figure consistent with the previous month. This indicates that companies are actively checking the registry to ensure compliance with the regulations. The Unidad Reguladora de Servicios de Comunicaciones is responsible for overseeing the implementation and enforcement of the “No Llame” registry, and has the authority to impose sanctions on companies that violate the rules. URSEC’s website details the criteria for applying sanctions and outlines the protocol for handling complaints.
Reporting Unsolicited Calls and SMS
Despite being registered, some users may continue to receive unwanted calls or text messages. In such cases, URSEC encourages individuals to file a complaint through the registry’s reporting mechanism. This allows the regulatory body to investigate the issue and take appropriate action against the offending company. The complaint process is designed to be straightforward and accessible, ensuring that consumers can easily report violations of the “No Llame” regulations.
The effectiveness of the “No Me Llame” registry relies on both consumer participation and company compliance. While the registry provides a valuable tool for individuals to protect their privacy, We see ultimately the responsibility of companies to respect consumer preferences and adhere to the regulations. Ongoing monitoring and enforcement by URSEC are crucial to ensuring that the registry remains effective in reducing unwanted commercial communications.
Looking Ahead: Continued Growth and Enforcement
The continued growth of the ‘No Me Llame’ registry suggests a sustained demand for greater control over telemarketing communications in Uruguay. As awareness of the registry increases and more individuals register their numbers, its impact on reducing unwanted calls and messages is likely to become more pronounced. URSEC is expected to continue monitoring the registry’s performance and refining its enforcement mechanisms to ensure its effectiveness.
The success of the Uruguayan initiative could also serve as a model for other countries in Latin America and beyond, as they seek to strengthen consumer protection laws and empower citizens to control their personal data. The global trend towards greater data privacy and consumer empowerment is likely to continue, driving further innovation in regulatory frameworks and technological solutions designed to protect individuals from unwanted commercial solicitations.
The next update on registry statistics is expected in the spring of 2026, providing further insight into its impact and effectiveness. Individuals interested in registering their numbers or filing a complaint can visit the URSEC website for more information. We encourage readers to share their experiences with the ‘No Me Llame’ registry in the comments below.