The New York State Assembly passed legislation, cosponsored by Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D-C Marcy), to combat harassing phone calls made by phone apps and fake numbers (A61).

“Over the past few years, there has been an alarming increase in the number of New Yorkers receiving harassing phone calls from individuals using phone apps and websites to disguise their number,” said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. “This legislation will make it easier for law enforcement to trace the fake number used back to the harasser and hold them accountable.”

The legislation would require a company that provides a phone app to keep a record of the original phone number in question, the internet protocol (IP) address, and the date and time of the phone call. Police will be able to request this information when investigating a case of harassment.

Unwanted phone calls can be stressful and frightening. For any serious threats, do not hesitate to call the police and file a report and, provide as much information to law enforcement as you can. “By requiring this information to be recorded, not only will law enforcement be able to hold wrongdoers accountable, but it will also deter anonymous phone harassment from occurring,” said Buttenschon.

“I applaud my colleagues for passing this commonsense legislation to keep New Yorkers safe and hold criminals accountable” said Buttenschon.