Sick of robocallers? Here are some tips.
If robocalls are getting to you, you’re not alone. Those super-annoying automatic calls have recently exploded, and it’s enough to make anyone go bonkers. More than 30 billion robocalls are made in the United States annually, and the Federal Trade Commission answers a whopping 375,000 complaints about robocalls each month. So, if you are sick of the robocallers, here are a few tips to stop the calls.
How do they have my number?
Thanks to the internet, scammers, and telemarketers can find almost anyone’s phone number.
Robocallers also buy numbers from companies or websites that require visitors to submit basic information that includes phone numbers. Other times, robocallers simply dial thousands of numbers at random.
Who’s on the other end of the line?
Robocalls might try to sell you a product or urge you into signing up for services. Other times, they’ll try to scam you by appearing to represent a government agency. Even if the scammer takes just a few people in, the minimal cost of running the calls is more than worth it for the person behind the calls.
Here’s how the robocalls take a stab at appearing authentic:
- Spoofing. Using software, the robocaller tweaks the way their number shows up on caller ID. They can make it look like the IRS is on the phone, your electric service company is calling, or like a representative from Apple is trying to reach you.
- Disguised identity. Robocallers may also choose to show up on your caller ID as “private number,” “unavailable,” or “unknown.”
How to block robocalls
Don’t answer calls from unfamiliar numbers
If you don’t recognize the number on your caller ID, let it go to voicemail. Ignore all calls from recognized companies you have no reason to believe are calling you as well.
Block unwanted numbers
If there’s a specific number that calls you persistently, use your phone to block it from reaching you again. Next, check with your phone service provider about possible technologies you can download to block anonymous calls or those from specific area codes. Consider downloading a robocall-blocking app, such as Nomorobo, RoboKiller, Hiya, or TrueCaller, for a more robust defense against unwanted calls.
Require caller input
Consider setting up a call-blocking technology, such as the Sentry Active Call Blocker, to greet callers with a message requiring them to enter a number before the call can proceed. That’s something robots can’t yet do.
Don’t share your number
Never share your phone number with a company unless you absolutely must.
Sign up for the Do Not Call Registry
Visit www.donotcall.gov to add your numbers to the list of registered callers who don’t want to be bothered by telemarketers.
File a complaint
If you’ve signed up for the Do Not Call Registry and, after a month, are still receiving robocalls from certain companies, you can file a complaint at ftc.gov. The FTC also has an option to report unwanted calls. Make sure you report every robocall on the registry and pretty soon, they will stop.
We are all sick of robocallers! If you report them, the FTC can stop the scammers from contacting you. Take action against robocallers today by reporting them to the FTC and reclaim your peace! If you like this post, check out our other posts on the MoneySmart Tips blog.
