AT&T Mobility targets firms in ‘robocalls’ suit

AT&T Mobility has named seven telemarketing firms and two individuals in a lawsuit aimed at stopping so-called “robocalls” from companies selling extended warranties.

The original suit, filed in federal court in Atlanta, was a “John Doe” complaint because Atlanta-based AT&T Mobility didn’t know which companies were behind the calls.

It amended the lawsuit on Wednesday to add the firms and individuals.

“We’re continuing to investigate,” said Marty Richter, an AT&T spokesman, explaining that the firms weren’t initially identified because the phone numbers were continually changing.

The suit seeks $1,500 per violation of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. Collectively, the firms face millions of dollars in potential damages, Richter said. AT&T customers began complaining about the robocalls in November and still get unwanted solicitations, he said.

“We’re just trying to run these guys down and put them out of business.”

An official of one company named, Volcano Leads LLC, said he is unaware of any problems. “I don’t know anything about it and Volcano is out of business,” said Joseph Ramsey, who said he owned the company.

Other firms named are C1F Inc., which also does business as Choice One Financial; SCM Media; Proximo Systems; CCI; and Auto One Warranty Specialists, all based in California. Voice Solutions, of Pinellas Park, Fla., also was named. The suit also named two California men.