Introduction
Robocalls are a rising issue, and it’s affecting a lot of people across the country. They’re a constant annoyance, and while you may think that you’re safe from these unwanted calls, they can happen any time of the day, even when you’re at your busiest moment. This article aims to explore different ways to stop robocalls, the benefits of these options, and how you can protect yourself.
It’s crucial to take robocalls seriously because they can lead to phone scams, which can jeopardize your personal information and even your financial records. Therefore, it’s high time to take action and protect yourself from these unwanted calls.
Ways to Block Robocalls on your Mobile Phone
When it comes to mobile phones, robocalls are prevalent these days. Scammers have learned to create robocalls that seem genuine and can easily fool most people. Fortunately, there are options available for blocking these calls.
First, you can use call-blocking apps, which are free or available for purchase on the App Store or Google Play Store. They work by comparing incoming calls to a database of known robocall numbers, which can include government numbers, and blocking them. However, some call-blocking apps can also block legitimate calls or send them straight to voicemail.
Another option for blocking robocalls is to use your mobile phone carrier’s blocking services. Most carriers offer some form of robocall-blocking features, which you can usually access by calling customer service or visiting their website. However, some of these services are only free for a limited time, and they may not block all unwanted calls.
Lastly, you can activate the “do not disturb” function on your phone to send all incoming calls to voicemail when you don’t want to be disturbed. This will work well during the night or when you’re too busy to answer calls but not when you’re expecting an important call.
Tips to Protect Yourself from Phone Scams
Scammers use different techniques to lure their targets and get their personal information or hard-earned cash. You may get a call from someone claiming to be a government agency, a tech support representative, or even an employee of your bank. They will either sound friendly and helpful or threatening and pushy. However, you can protect yourself from phone scams by being alert and following the tips below:
First, don’t give out any personal information over the phone or via email. Scammers often use phishing techniques to trick you into giving them details like your Social Security number, credit card details, or even your login credentials.
Second, verify the caller’s identity by asking specific questions about their organization or employing some independent research to confirm their claims. For instance, if they claim to be from the IRS, you can call the IRS to verify if they indeed made the call.
Third, be vigilant of suspicious calls, emails, or text messages. Scammers use delicate techniques to lure their targets into giving out their data, so it’s necessary to be extra careful.
How to Legally Stop Robocalls on your Landline Phone
Robocalls are not only a problem for mobile phones – they can also be annoying and persistent on landline phones. The good news is that there are legal ways to stop robocalls on your landline phone.
One way is by adding to the National Do Not Call Registry. This will prevent companies from telemarketing you, and it is legal. However, it won’t stop all unsolicited calls, particularly from scammers and individuals not following regulations. Hence, if you receive illegal calls after you are on the National Do Not Call Registry, it is essential to report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Another option is to contact your Phone Service Provider and request them to block robocalls to your landline phone. Most phone service providers offer some form of robocall-blocking services, and they respond to your call within five business days.
Ways to Identify and Report Robocalls
Identifying robocalls is the first step in stopping these intrusive phone calls. Here are some tips for identifying robocalls:
Firstly, if someone is speaking in a robotic voice from the beginning of the call, it’s a robocall. Secondly, if you receive a call from a local number that you don’t recognize, it’s more than likely a scam robocall originating from a foreign country. Lastly, if you receive back-to-back calls, and when you pick up, there’s no answer, it could also be a robocall.
Reporting robocalls is important because it helps to prevent scammers from further harassing people. You can report robocalls by filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) online or by calling 1-888-382-1222. Additionally, you can register your phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry, which will block companies from telemarking you, and it is illegal
Avoiding illegal automated calls
Illegal automated calling is a severe crime, which may result in a big fine or even imprisonment. Scammers use these calls to commit fraud, identity theft, or other malicious activities. They use fake numbers to create the illusion that the calls are coming from real businesses or government organizations. Here’s how you can protect yourself from illegal automated calls:
Firstly, never answer robocalls that you don’t know. Secondly, avoid pressing any digits or following any prompts in the robocall, as this can confirm your phone number and lead to an increase in the number of robocalls that you receive. Lastly, register your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry, which will stop companies from calling you, even those that are not following the regulations.
Resources to Help Stop Unwanted Calls
The National Do Not Call Registry is an excellent resource that can stop companies that do not follow the regulations from telemarketing you. To add your phone number to the registry, visit www.donotcall.gov. You can also report robocalls to the FTC online or by calling them at 1-888-382-1222.
Other resources include the Nomorobo app that is available for download on the App Store or Google Play Store. Nomorobo will block unwanted telemarketing calls and some robocalls.
Different Types of Robocalls and How to Stop Them
There are different types of robocalls, and each serves a specific purpose that can harm you. Here are some types of robocalls:
First, political robocalls, which happen during elections. It is legal for political campaigns to use automated calls to reach potential voters. Secondly, collection robocalls, where a debt collector uses a robocall to collect late payments from their clients. Thirdly, telemarketing robocalls, where businesses use robocalls to promote their products. Lastly, scam robocalls, which trick you into disclosing your personal or financial information.
To stop political robocalls, register your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry. To stop collection robocalls, request the debt collector to cease and desist or follow the legal resolution procedures available. To stop telemarketing robocalls, register your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry or use call-blocking apps. Lastly, report scam robocalls to the FTC, register your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry or use call-blocking apps.
Conclusion
Robocalls are a growing issue that affects many people globally. They are usually annoying and, at times, dangerous. However, several ways can help stop these calls. This article explored several options, including how to block robocalls on mobile and landline phones, protecting yourself from phone scams, reporting robocalls, resources available to help stop unwanted calls, and how to stop different types of robocalls.
We encourage you to try at least one of the solutions mentioned above and help reduce the robocalls nuisance.
