The government has announced new measures to ban cold calls such as personal injury or PPI claims if the recipient hasn’t chosen to opt-in.

Previously, people had to ‘opt-out’ of receiving these calls by registering with the free Telephone Preference Service, or had to withdraw consent during the call.

But now, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, said callers will need to prove they have the recipient’s permission before dialling.

If not, rogue companies making unsolicited calls related to claims management could be fined up to £500,000 by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) if they breach the rules.

In the past year, approximately 2.7 billion unsolicited calls, texts and emails were made, including calls about recent accidents or mis-sold PPI, according to the regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority.

Minister for Digital, Margot James, said: “We are one step closer to ending the menace of nuisance calls. Our new laws mean people will now have to give consent to receive calls and have the power to choose where they seek compensation for personal injury claims or mis sold payment protection insurance. This is a big boost for the Information Commissioner’s Office and will help them crack down on the cold call sharks.”

People will be able to opt-in to receiving these calls by consenting to be contacted by claims companies when enquiring about settling a claim, or when seeking claims advice.

If they receive nuisance calls they can report it to the ICO which will investigate and take action against those responsible.