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The FCC in the past has generally accepted the telephone companies' position. In the classic Carterfone decision of 1968, however, the FCC relaxed the regulations somewhat. Since then, consumers have been allowed to hook any accessory to the telephone, provided that it is connected through a "protective device"—supplied and installed by a telephone company—that eliminates any possible electrical foul-ups on the phone lines. A T & T will put in the Name Caller but will also bill the customer for installation and a monthly user fee.
Now the FCC is considering possible ways to completely eliminate the hookup regulation. One method would be to set equipment standards that, if met, would allow users to attach any device to the telephone. An FCC committee is studying such a proposal and next year is expected to make a final report which will be either approved or rejected by the FCC. While the legal maneuverings drag on, however, Name Callers continue to be used. Because they produce no traceable electronic impulses, it is nearly impossible for phone-company officials to detect them.