OH SB290

Enacts section 2913.50 of the Revised Code to criminalize knowingly transmitting a telephone number or exchange not assigned to the person through any telecommunication or voice over internet protocol service.

Criminalizes knowingly transmitting misleading or inaccurate caller identification information with intent to defraud, cause harm to the recipient, or wrongfully obtain anything of value.

Establishes theft or conversion of a telephone number or exchange as a fifth-degree felony and providing misleading caller identification information as a fourth-degree felony, with enhanced penalties (fourth and third-degree felonies respectively) when the victim is an elderly person, disabled adult, active duty service member, or spouse of an active duty service member.

Exempts use of telephone numbers identified as "unknown" or "blocked" and messages that include the caller's identity.

Declares violations as unfair or deceptive acts under Ohio consumer protection law, allowing injured consumers to pursue civil remedies and keep goods or services obtained through the violation without payment obligation.