How to Stop Unwanted Robocalls

Are you getting too many unwanted phone calls from telemarketers and spammers? Robocalls are very annoying. They often deliver a recorded message. Although some automated calls from educational establishments or airline carriers may be useful, lots of them come from scammers seeking to trick you into providing financial data.

Fortunately, there are a few steps you may take on your own or with the help of your carrier to combat robocalls and spoofing.

1. Anonymous call rejection

The feature allows you to reject calls from people who activated the caller ID blocking service. If a caller withholds their number, they won’t be able to get through to you. The only possibility to get through is to reveal the number.

Most businesses and humans come with identifiable phone numbers. Scammers often use automated dialing software programs to set up robocalls. Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers since it may put you at risk of being a victim of voice phishing. Hang up immediately if you answer such a call.

2. Do Not Call Registry list

The service is designed by the FTC to protect consumers from unwanted telemarketing calls. You may register your mobile or landline phone on the National Do Not Call Registry list on a free of charge basis. Legitimate telemarketing companies check the list to avoid calling numbers stated therein.

After adding your number should appear on the list the next day, but it can take up to a month for telemarketing calls to stop. The registration won’t expire. Your number can be removed from the list by the FTC upon your request only.

3. Robocall blocker apps and services

While lawmakers continue debating on what to do with illegal robocalls, software engineers offer numerous call blocking and spam labeling solutions to work for consumers. Call blocking resources such as Whoeasy can identify a caller so that you will be able to find out if the call is important for you or not. If you want to check the phone number, you should first find a credible directory for this option.

Many apps can block unwanted phone calls that show up on spam or robocall lists. Before installing a particular spam call blocker on your mobile phone, you’d better look through online reviews to search for consumers’ opinions. They often provide valuable guidance from people who have already used the service.

You may also try different free trials to see which app works best for you before purchasing a long-term subscription.

4. Call blocking tools from phone carriers

Most major phone carriers provide their users with tools to stop robocalls, telemarketing, and phishing. The call-blocking technologies are available for Android and iOS-based devices. Some of them are free, others may charge a monthly fee. You can call your phone carrier for detailed information.

Phone companies may allow users to block calls from any numbers that aren’t included in their contact list. But there remains a possibility of missing important calls. Talk to your phone carrier and study expert reviews to fully understand your options including risks.

5. Individual phone numbers blocking

Android and iPhones come with in-built features for blocking individual phone numbers. You can at least block the most recurring robocalls. This prevents them from reaching you again. Some smartphones block robocalls automatically. The inbound spam call protection feature can be very useful.

You may visit the websites of your cell phone manufacturers and check out the appropriate guides to learn how to use features built into your phone to block unwanted calls.

6. Do-not-disturb mode

You may switch on the Do-not-disturb mode on your device to block every number except for the most trusted contacts. Please note if this mode is on, you may miss some legitimate calls. But, there remains the possibility to leave a voice message.

If you are going to use this service, don’t forget to set a password for your voice mail account to prevent hackers from gaining access to your voice mail.

7. Common sense

Be governed by common sense in any situation. Don’t answer unknown calls that don’t show up on caller ID. Never give out personal information such as social security numbers, account details, passwords, etc. in response to unexpected calls. Anytime you are pressed for information, use caution.

Despite the rising volume of robocalls in recent years, you are fully equipped with the solutions to identify, filter, and prevent suspected numbers from dialing and texting your phone. Robocall blocking technologies and a sound mind remain the best defense against unwanted calls.

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