While prank calling may not inflict any direct harm or impede a person's freedom, some states consider it a form of harassment, stalking or bullying. Most states have laws against prank calling. Check your state's laws if in doubt.

1

Cyberstalking

You may be charged with cyberstalking if you repeatedly make unwanted phone calls to a another individual. Regardless of whether you speak when the dialled party answers, repeated calls may result in a criminal charge of cyberstalking. Making threats or using obscene language also often fall under cyberstalking laws.

2

Cyberharassment

States with cyberharassment laws hold that any phone call intended to cause the recipient emotional distress is an illegal action. The exception to this law is a call that has a legitimate purpose, such as a call to collect a debt.

  • While prank calling may not inflict any direct harm or impede a person's freedom, some states consider it a form of harassment, stalking or bullying.
  • States with cyberharassment laws hold that any phone call intended to cause the recipient emotional distress is an illegal action.
3

Cyberbulling

Cyberbulling is similar to cyberharassment, but it applies to school districts and minors. In short, it is an extension of bullying laws to cover phone use.

4

Punishment

Depending on the state and type of crime, prank calling may be considered a misdemeanour or a felony, and a prank caller will be subject to the appropriate punishment, which may be a fine, jail time, or both. Regardless of state laws, however, the FCC's Telecommunications Act of 1996 makes the crime of prank calling punishable with up to two years of imprisonment and/or fines surpassing £650.