Managing Unwanted Commercial Messages in Colombia: Rules and Opt-Out Options

Colombia’s primary framework for blocking unwanted commercial communications--such as sales calls, SMS, and messages--rests on Ley 2300 de 2023, known as the "Ley de No Molestar." This law established the Registro Nacional de Exclusión (RNE), an official opt-out registry managed through the Comisión de Regulación de Comunicaciones (CRC) platform. Consumers can register in the RNE to prevent companies from contacting them for commercial purposes.

No Colombian regulations mandate or entitle users to "free spam blocker apps." Device-built tools, third-party apps from Google Play or Apple App Store, and carrier filters exist but fall outside Ley 2300 de 2023 scope. These apps address spam variably and lack legal backing for effectiveness or cost. The law targets commercial contacts only, not personal or non-commercial spam.

For Colombian mobile users facing persistent sales messages, registering in the RNE offers the direct, official path. This article outlines the controlling rules, exclusions, registration process, and escalation options based on guidance from MinTIC and the Superintendencia de Industria y Comercio (SIC).

The Controlling Rule: Ley 2300 de 2023 and Registro Nacional de Exclusión (RNE)

Ley 2300 de 2023 governs commercial communications in Colombia, restricting unsolicited calls, SMS, and messages from companies. It created the RNE to let consumers opt out of these contacts. Companies must consult the registry before reaching out and respect exclusions.

MinTIC announced the RNE implementation, with consumers able to inscribe from April 10 and companies registering from April 3. Access occurs via the CRC platform. The law also limits contact hours and modifies rules for debt collection communications, prioritizing consumer protection from excess marketing.

This framework from MinTIC (portal announcement) controls commercial spam, not app-based blocking.

What Does Not Control Spam Blocking

Ley 2300 de 2023 and the RNE do not regulate "free spam blocker apps" or require them to be free or effective. No evidence supports legal entitlements to such apps under Colombian consumer protection rules. App store policies from Google Play or Apple apply separately and vary by developer.

The RNE excludes non-commercial spam, such as personal messages or fraud attempts.

Next Steps: Register for RNE and File Complaints

To opt out of commercial messages:

  1. Visit the CRC platform for RNE registration, available to consumers from April 10.
  2. Provide required details to inscribe your number.

For violations or other consumer issues, use the SIC mobile app to file quejas. Download it through the SIC portal for reporting irregularities in digital services or communications.

If a company contacts you post-registration, document evidence and submit a complaint via SIC channels. These paths align with MinTIC guidance and SIC processes.

Key Dates and Limits Under Ley 2300 de 2023

Limits include scope to commercial communications only--sales promotions, not debt collection (modified but permitted under conditions) or non-commercial spam. The law sets contact hour restrictions but does not cover app-based tools or all message types.

FAQ

Does Ley 2300 de 2023 cover all types of spam messages?

No, it targets commercial communications like sales calls and SMS, not personal or non-commercial spam.

How do I register in the Registro Nacional de Exclusión (RNE)?

Access the CRC platform from April 10 to inscribe your number, per MinTIC guidance.

What is the SIC mobile app used for?

It handles general consumer quejas, including rights irregularities in communications or services.

Are free spam blocker apps required by Colombian law?

No evidence supports requirements or entitlements to free spam blocker apps under Ley 2300 de 2023 or related rules.

When did RNE open for consumer registrations?

From April 10, following company registrations from April 3.

Can I use RNE to stop debt collection calls?

The law modifies but does not fully exclude debt collection; commercial sales contacts are the primary target.

For ongoing issues, check the MinTIC portal for RNE updates and use SIC channels for complaints.