What is DNC Scrubbing and Why Do You Need It?

Ever wondered how businesses ensure they don’t call people who don’t want to be contacted? 📞

That’s where DNC scrubbing comes in. It provides a sense of security by removing phone numbers from your contact lists that are listed on any state or federal Do Not Call registries. 📝

Businesses practice DNC scrubbing to comply with legal regulations and enhance customer relationships by respecting their communication preferences.

In this blog, we’ll explore DNC scrubbing in-depth, covering its meaning, the need for it, ways to scrub leads against the DNC, and factors to look for in DNC scrubber software.

So, let’s get started.

What is DNC Scrubbing?

DNC Scrubbing is the process of cleaning, removing, or flagging phone numbers that appear on the National Do Not Call Registry, state Do Not Call lists, wireless registries, or company-specific disabled lists in your telemarketing operations. It entails using data to remove non-compliant phone numbers from your calling lists.

By having a DNC scrubber, you can ensure that your outbound team doesn’t call these numbers. This way, you can prevent unintentional offenses involving numbers that are not officially associated with you, reduce the risks of penalties, and maintain compliance with federal regulations and telemarketing laws. DNC-registered data will always end up in your contact list, so you should search for violations constantly.

What is the DNC Listing?

A DNC listing is a database containing the phone numbers of people who do not want to be contacted by telemarketers or businesses. As per the law, the telephone number included on the DNC list cannot be used for further sales calls or cold calls. Breaking this rule can lead to big penalties.

People should visit the official website of the National Do Not Call Registry, register for an account, and submit their phone numbers to be listed on this list. By doing so, they can prevent themselves from receiving unwanted telemarketing and unsolicited calls. 

Why Do You Need DNC Scrubbing?

DNC scrubbing is not just a regulatory necessity, it’s a strategic approach that empowers businesses to maximize their marketing efforts, maintain their brand reputation, and strategically comply with telemarketing laws.

• Legal compliance: A fine of up to $43,792 could be assessed for each call made to a number listed in the National Do Not Call Registry. This shows how important it is for businesses to engage in DNC scrubbing before calling customers’ numbers.

• Strengthening brand image: Being professional and adhering to DNC laws consistently enables your company to differentiate itself from competitors. Consistent and regular DNC scrubbing shows that you are dedicated to maintaining customer privacy and business relationships.

• Maintaining accurate CRM data: Frequent DNC scrubbing ensures that the leads in your customer relationship management (CRM) system are compliant and reachable. Businesses might consider updating and working under the compliance guide to ensure the compliance of their contact lists to prevent data misplacement.

• Improve conversion rates: DNC scrubbing helps you determine that the people you call through telemarketing are the ones who have not opted out of receiving calls. It means you’re reaching the target audience, increasing your chances of conversion and leads.

Benefits of DNC Scrubbing

Some of the benefits of DNC scrubbing are:

1. Enhanced Call Efficiency

DNC scrubbing eliminates any number from the list that is related to Do Not Call (DNC), which increases the chances of conversion and streamlines the process,  ensuring that only legally reachable numbers get called. 

Your team can save time from calls that do not result in conversions if they eliminate the numbers listed on the DNC regulations list. It means each call can be successful, making it more likely for each call to be effective and generate leads.

2. Maintain Data Accuracy

The DNC scrubbing process removes all phone numbers on the NDNC list, keeping your customer database up-to-date and compliant. This ensures that the leads in your CRM system are reachable and accurate. Additionally, maintaining an accurate and compliant customer database enhances successful telemarketing campaigns and avoids legal issues. 

3. Enhance Compliance Practices

DNC scrubbing ensures that companies follow regulations such as the Do Not Call (DNC) Registry and the U.S. Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), which can save them from heavy fines and legal issues.

It also facilitates cleaning up the DNC list, reducing human errors, and ensuring everyone follows the rules and regulations and is compliant.

4. Enhance Brand Reputation

Consistently applying the DNC scrubbing is smart because it differentiates your firm from competitors who do not prioritize customer confidentiality as much as customer profitability. 

Being consistent with DNC requirements is more than just a compliance practice. It’s a strategic move that can give your business a competitive edge. An excellent history of respecting customer preferences can inspire confidence in your brand, attracting and retaining more customers.

5. Compliance Documentation

Thorough documentation of your DNC scrubbing practices is more than just a legal requirement—it’s a testament to your organization’s commitment to privacy and responsible business conduct. By maintaining clear and transparent compliance procedures, you not only adhere to telemarketing laws but also enhance your credibility and trustworthiness among stakeholders. 

Partners, consumers, and investors will have greater confidence in your business when they see that you take regulations seriously and prioritize ethical practices.

How to Scrub Leads Against DNC?

It is a requirement that your telemarketing calls or campaigns should comply with the DNC regulations to prevent paying heavy penalties and maintain clients’ trust. Here is a comprehensive strategy on how to thoroughly scrub leads against the DNC list:

• Obtain the DNC leads: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or a commercial supplier may make the register data available with approval. You should get the most up-to-date version of the list to avoid contacting newly registered numbers.

• Compile your lead list: Compile a list of the calls you intend to make and ensure they are accurate and up to date so that individuals are reachable.

• Use DNC Scrubbing software: Make sure to purchase reliable DNC scrubbing software that automates tasks by comparing your contacts list with the DNC list. If there are any phone numbers belonging to the National Do Not Call Registry, they will either be flagged or deleted by such programs.

• Update your call lists: Frequently cross-checking your contact list against the most recent Do-Not-Call registry can help you keep your calling lists up to date. This operation should be carried out regularly, as new phone numbers are always being added to the database.

• Audit the scrubbing process: Regularly inspecting your scrubbing process helps to check for compliance with the rules. This implies that you must also monitor your scrubbing efforts and conversations with the DNC list.

What to Look for in DNC Scrubber Software?

When it comes to choosing DNC scrubber software, a few things can greatly uplift your compliance and efficiency. Some of them are:

• Ease of use: The DNC scrubbing process will be easier if the program has a simple user interface. For instance, look for simple list upload, user-friendly navigation, and clear instructions to reduce the learning curve and enhance team performance. A friendly design assures efficiency in operation and quick adoption.

• Integration capabilities: The DNC scrubber software should be able to integrate with your existing CRM and marketing systems. Integration allows for alignment and automation of works, resulting in up-to-date contact lists without manual involvement. This feature enhances the accuracy of the information and workstream.

• Compliance: Make sure you properly review the DNC scrubber tools or software with both federal and state DNC listing requirements. You should ensure it has adopted some industry best practices to avoid fines and legal issues. 

• Real-time updates: The DNC scrubber software should provide real-time updates so that you’re always working from current and latest DNC lists. This regular updating ensures your business does not suffer any compliance problems due to outdated information in the lists or has numbers that are still reachable.

• Pricing and customer support: You must consider the DNC scrubber software pricing to ensure it matches your budget and requirements. Also, ensure that the scrubber software has reliable customer service that provides assistance through telephone calls, electronic mail, chats, or any available channels. Quality customer service is necessary to ensure timely problem resolution and uninterrupted processes, particularly in crucial moments.

Conclusion

DNC scrubbing is essential for any business that makes telemarketing calls. It helps you follow the law by ensuring you don’t call numbers on the Do Not Call list, saving you from fines and legal trouble. Beyond that, it shows you respect people’s wishes and care about their privacy. 

By regularly cleaning your call lists and keeping good records, you build trust with your customers and partners. In short, DNC scrubbing isn’t just about staying out of trouble—it’s about doing business the right way and building a good reputation.

FAQ

How do I remove myself from DNC?

To remove yourself from the Do Not Call (DNC) list, you need to contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or visit their official website. You can register your number to be added to the Do Not Call list, and it will remain there unless you request removal.

How much does it cost to scrub a DNC?

The cost to scrub a DNC list can vary widely depending on the service provider and the volume of numbers being processed. Typically, it ranges from $0.01 to $0.05 per phone number. Some services may also offer subscription plans that start at around $100 to $500 per month, depending on the features and the size of the database.

How often do I need to scrub against the Do Not Call (DNC) List?

You need to scrub your contact lists against the Do Not Call (DNC) List at least every 31 days to ensure compliance with regulations.