How to Avoid Robocalls and Telemarketers?

Nowadays, robocalls and telemarketing calls are a major headache for people here in the USA. They are trying to sell their product or services, which can be disruptive, and waste precious time.

Fortunately, you can follow the steps to reduce the number of these unwanted calls. Let’s take a look at them.

1. Don't Answer Calls from Unknown Numbers

One of the best ways to avoid robocalls is to simply not answer calls from numbers you don't recognize. Let unknown callers leave a voicemail if they have a legitimate reason to reach you. If it's important, they'll leave a message.

2. Use Call Blocking Features

Most phone providers offer call-blocking features that can help filter out robocalls and spam. On iPhones, you can block specific numbers or enable "Silence Unknown Callers" to send calls from unidentified numbers straight to voicemail.

Android users can block numbers in the Phone app settings. Third-party apps like Hiya, Nomorobo, and RoboKiller can also help identify and block spam calls. These apps use databases of known robocall numbers to screen incoming calls.

3. Be Cautious with Call Prompts

Robocalls often use prompts to verify that your number is active. If you answer a call and hear a recording asking you to press a number, just hang up. Pressing a button can confirm your number is real and lead to more calls.

The same goes for calls that start with a question like "Can you hear me?" Avoid saying "yes" as this could be recorded and used against you.

4. Don't Provide Personal Information

If you do answer a call and suspect it's a scam, don't provide any personal information like account numbers or Social Security numbers. Legitimate companies won't ask for sensitive data over the phone.

5. Report Robocalls to Authorities

In the U.S., you can report robocalls to the Federal Trade Commission at DoNotCall. Provide the phone number that appeared on your caller ID. This helps the FTC track down scammers and share the numbers with phone carriers working on call-blocking solutions.

6. Consider a Disposable Number

For situations where you need to provide a phone number but want to avoid robocalls, consider using a disposable number. Apps like Burner allow you to create temporary phone numbers that can be blocked if they start receiving spam.

7. Use Caller ID and Let Unknown Numbers Go to Voicemail

Let calls from unknown numbers go to voicemail. If it's important, they'll leave a message. Caller ID can help you identify known numbers to answer and unknown numbers to let ring.

8. Be Cautious When Giving Out Your Phone Number

Limit sharing your phone number online and offline. Avoid posting it publicly on websites, business cards, forms, or surveys. The fewer places your number appears, the less likely it is to end up on a telemarketing list.

9. Consider Changing Your Number as a Last Resort

If you're receiving an overwhelming number of robocalls, you can contact your phone provider about changing your number. This is a drastic step, but it may be necessary if your number has been targeted by scammers. Be sure to notify important contacts of your new number.

10. File Complaints with Authorities

If you receive a call that violates the Do Not Call list or that you suspect is a scam, file a complaint with the FTC at donotcall.gov or the FCC at fcc.gov/consumers. Providing details about the call helps authorities track down scammers.

Conclusion

Robocalls and telemarketers are a nuisance, but by being cautious with unknown numbers, using call-blocking features, and reporting scams, you can reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive. Stay vigilant, and don't let these disruptive calls ruin your day.