File an FCC complaint for slamming (unauthorized carrier changes) or cramming (unauthorized telephone bill charges) via the FCC Consumer Complaint Center online at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov, by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322), or by mailing Form 2000. The FCC receives tens of thousands of telephone billing complaints each year, including those for cramming--the illegal act of placing unauthorized charges on wireline, wireless, or bundled services telephone bills--and slamming, unauthorized changes to your telephone carrier. These FCC rules under 47 CFR part 64 control telephone billing practices and do not cover credit card disputes, merchant refunds, or non-telecom charges. First contact your carrier to dispute the charges, then file with the FCC, which forwards complaints to the carrier or third party for response.
What FCC Rules Control Slamming and Cramming
Cramming involves placing unauthorized charges on your telephone bill, often disguised as "enhanced services," "access," "activation," or small mystery fees. Slamming refers to unauthorized changes to your telephone carrier or service. The FCC regulates these practices for wireline, wireless, and bundled services, with rules first adopted in 1985 and under ongoing review. A 2025 FCC notice of proposed rulemaking seeks comments on amendments to 47 CFR 64.1190, 64.1150, and related sections to modernize protections against unauthorized carrier changes and charges, but core prohibitions remain in effect.
FCC enforcement has resulted in $353 million in penalties and restitution in cramming cases, as noted in official consumer guidance. These rules apply specifically to telephone billing; review your bill for suspicious line items before proceeding. For details, see the FCC guide on understanding your telephone bill and the 2025 Federal Register NPRM.
What Does Not Control Slamming/Cramming Complaints
FCC slamming and cramming rules do not apply to credit card billing disputes, e-commerce merchant refunds, or general product complaints--those follow separate processes like card network chargebacks or retailer policies. This is a telephone billing issue under federal telecom regulations (47 CFR part 64), not a generic unauthorized charge. States may handle some intrastate slamming complaints per FCC rules (e.g., 47 CFR 64.1110), such as California's CPUC, but the FCC remains the primary federal route for interstate issues.
| Issue Type | Controlled By | Not Controlled By |
|---|---|---|
| Unauthorized telephone bill charges (cramming) | FCC rules (47 CFR part 64) | Credit card chargebacks |
| Unauthorized carrier switch (slamming) | FCC rules (47 CFR 64.1190, etc.) | Merchant refund policies |
| Wireless or bundled service billing | FCC consumer complaint process | State AG general consumer complaints |
How to File an FCC Slamming or Cramming Complaint
Gather evidence including copies of your telephone bills highlighting the disputed charges, details on any third-party services, and proof of lack of authorization (or any communications). Contact your carrier first to request removal of the charges. Then file via the FCC Consumer Complaint Center online, phone, or mail. The FCC forwards your complaint to the carrier or responsible party, which must respond.
Track your complaint through the FCC portal. For intrastate issues, check your state utility commission (e.g., NY DPS guide on cramming or WI DATCP on cramming/slamming). No fixed timelines or automatic refunds apply; outcomes depend on the carrier's investigation under FCC rules.
Evidence Checklist:
- Telephone bill statements with circled charges
- Carrier confirmation of dispute (if contacted)
- Details of any "enhanced service" or third-party involvement
- Account history showing no authorization
FAQ
What proof do I need for an FCC cramming complaint?
Bill copies, charge descriptions, and evidence of no authorization, such as lack of consent records.
Does the FCC handle wireless phone bill cramming?
Yes, FCC rules cover wireless and bundled services telephone bills.
What if my slamming involves cable services?
Contact your local franchising authority first, then escalate to FCC if needed.
Can states handle slamming complaints?
States may opt to adjudicate per FCC rules (47 CFR 64.1110), but FCC handles federal oversight.