Is It Legal to Record Phone Calls? A Quick Guide to Consent

Written by: The iCaughtYou Team

Published 09/07/25

Don’t Guess—Know the Rules

Recording a call can feel like common sense. You want clarity. You want proof. You want to protect yourself.

But here’s the thing: depending on where you live, what feels reasonable may not be legal. And no one wants a useful tool to turn into an accidental violation.

This post clears up the confusion—so you’ll know exactly when recording a call is safe, smart, and above-board.

One-Party Consent vs. Two-Party Consent: The Basics

The U.S. breaks down into two main categories when it comes to call recording laws:

  • One-Party Consent States
    Only one person in the conversation needs to know it’s being recorded. That person can be you. This means you don’t need to tell the other caller—it’s automatically legal.

  • Two-Party (or All-Party) Consent States
    Everyone in the conversation must be informed and agree to recording. If you don’t tell them, you could be breaking the law.

Which States Require Two-Party Consent?

Currently, 12 states require all-party consent. These include:
California, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Delaware.

If you live in or call into one of these states, play it safe: get consent before recording.

What About International Calls?

If you’re calling outside the U.S., laws vary widely:

  • In the UK, recording for personal use is allowed, but sharing requires consent.

  • In Canada, one-party consent applies.

  • In the EU, GDPR adds stricter conditions—like informing the other party why you’re recording.

Rule of thumb: When in doubt, disclose.

Why Consent Isn’t Just Legal—It’s Practical

Even in one-party states, telling someone you’re recording can help:

  • It sets boundaries and prevents accusations later.

  • It often calms harassment—people behave differently when they know they’re being recorded.

  • It builds trust when recording for work or agreements.

Transparency isn’t weakness—it’s protection.

How iCaughtYou Helps You Record Responsibly

iCaughtYou makes call recording simple, but also mindful of consent rules. Features like:

  • Easy one-tap recording

  • Secure storage so your files stay private

  • Options to label recordings with consent notes

You’re not just recording—you’re doing it responsibly.

When Recording Is the Right Move

Some situations where recording can protect you:

  • Ongoing phone harassment

  • Important agreements with service providers

  • Disputes where facts may later be challenged

  • Personal reminders (details, numbers, instructions)

Just remember—check the rules first, then hit record.

Bottom Line: Stay Legal, Stay Smart

Recording calls is powerful. But with power comes responsibility. Understanding consent laws makes the difference between peace of mind and unnecessary risk.

With iCaughtYou, you can record calls confidently—because you know both the rules and the tools.

Take the Safe Approach to Recording

Be smart, not sorry.
undefined Start recording with iCaughtYou today

Further Reading