Hoarding refers to the practice where a toll-free subscriber acquires more toll-free numbers from a Responsible Organization than they plan to use for providing toll-free services. This practice can also include number brokering, where individuals or organizations buy and sell toll-free numbers. The intent behind hoarding is often to reserve numbers for future use or to sell them at a profit.
Hoarding is primarily relevant in telecommunications law and regulatory compliance. It is addressed under federal regulations, specifically those governing toll-free numbers. Legal practitioners may encounter hoarding in cases involving telecommunications disputes or regulatory inquiries. Users may benefit from legal templates provided by US Legal Forms to navigate related processes effectively.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
(Hypothetical example) A business acquires twenty toll-free numbers but only needs five for customer service. The remaining numbers are held in reserve, leading to a potential hoarding situation.
According to 47 CFR 52.107, hoarding is defined and regulated. This regulation outlines the responsibilities of toll-free subscribers and the implications of hoarding practices.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Hoarding | Acquiring more toll-free numbers than intended for use. | Focuses on excess acquisition and potential resale. |
| Number brokering | Buying and selling toll-free numbers. | Involves active selling rather than just holding numbers. |
If you believe you are involved in hoarding toll-free numbers, consider the following steps:
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical Fees | Fees may vary based on the Responsible Organization. |
| Jurisdiction | Federal regulations apply. |
| Possible Penalties | Regulatory fines for non-compliance. |
Hoarding is the practice of acquiring more toll-free numbers than necessary for intended use.