Metro PCS and PrivacyStar join forces to increase customer protection with Metro Block-it

Metro PCS and PrivacyStar have announced a new joint venture that will offer privacy features to all MetroPCS’ Android users via a Metro Block-it application. A first national carrier rollout, Metro Block-it offers the ability to block unwanted calls and text messages along with a feature to directly file complaints against telemarketers and debt collectors with the Federal Trade Commission. Stormy and I had the opportunity to visit the PrivacyStar booth at ShowStoppers during CES last month, so it’s nice to hear an update from our friends and to see they’re making big moves. For more information, check out the full presser below.

PrivacyStar Announces Metro Block-itSM Call and Text Message Blocking Service for MetroPCS Customers

First National Carrier Rollout Provides Privacy, Protection and Preference
Features for Customers

CONWAY, Ark. – Feb. 14, 2012 – Today PrivacyStar announces Metro Block-it, a call and text message blocking service for MetroPCS Communications, Inc. customers. The service also allows customers to directly file complaints against telemarketers and debt collectors with the Federal Trade Commission and is now available on MetroPCS’ Android smartphones, with support for BlackBerry smartphones and feature phone service coming soon. MetroPCS is the first national mobile service provider to offer the PrivacyStar service directly to its customers.

“We recognize that MetroPCS is innovative in delivering superior services and features to its customers,” said Jeff Stalnaker, CEO of PrivacyStar. “With Metro Block-it we will power a request that was driven by millions of MetroPCS customers to provide them with the best privacy service available.”

Metro Block-it offers a versatile call blocking functionality that gives users the ability to block unwanted calls and text messages from individual numbers, and all private and unknown numbers. All blocked numbers can be managed directly from the user’s phone, enabling them to easily monitor all activity on their account as well as block and unblock callers and see when and how many times a blocked number has tried to be in contact.

In addition to blocking unwanted calls and texts, Metro Block-it users can report potential Do Not Call Registry and Fair Debt Collection Practices Act violations directly from their phones, making it easy to file complaints. Complaint data is automatically captured by PrivacyStar and fed directly into Consumer Sentinel, the secure database available to more than 1,800 law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad for consumer protection purposes.

“We understand our customers’ needs and, with mobile devices being the primary phone and Internet device for many of our customers, recognize the need to provide them with a service that allows for uninterrupted use and control over their primary lifeline to the world,” said Tom Keys, president and chief operating officer of MetroPCS. “We’re excited about working with PrivacyStar to meet the needs of our users and continue providing voice, text and data services, along with great features like Metro Block-it, at an incredible value.”

This solution is enabled via PrivacyStar’s strategic relationship with Syniverse as part of the Syniverse Wireless Caller ID and Privacy Management Applications portfolio.

Metro Block-it is available to download on the phone via the @metro App store. Customers will have access to a 30-day free unlimited trial of the application and then the service can easily be continued for $1.00 per month.  For more information, customers can visithttp://www.metropcs.com/metro/browse/feature/cat610035/cat610036/BLK.

About MetroPCS Communications, Inc.
Dallas-based MetroPCS Communications, Inc. (NYSE: PCS) is a provider of no annual contract, unlimited wireless communications service for a flat-rate. MetroPCS is the fifth largest facilities-based wireless carrier in the United States based on number of subscribers served. With Metro USA(SM), MetroPCS customers can use their service in areas throughout the United States covering a population of over 280 million people. As of December 31, 2011, MetroPCS had over 9.3 million subscribers. For more information please visit www.metropcs.com.

About PrivacyStar
PrivacyStar, a smartphone application, provides consumers with the top of the line in phone privacy, protection and preference. Based in Conway, Arkansas, PrivacyStar has years of regulatory experience working with both Federal and State bodies to define and understand all aspects of consumer protection laws and regulations, and has patented numerous privacy and preference solutions.

For regular PrivacyStar updates follow us at www.twitter.com/PrivacyStar, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PrivacyStar or visit www.PrivacyStar.com.

Thanks Katie!