Unwanted calls have become a ubiquitous problem in today's digital age. With the rise of robocalls, spam calls, and scams, it's not uncommon for phone users to receive multiple unwanted calls per day. These calls can be not only annoying but also potentially harmful, as they can be used to steal personal data or scam individuals out of their hard-earned money. In this article, we'll explore the world of unwanted calls, discuss the dangers they pose, and provide tips on how to finally silence them and protect your personal data.
Key Points
- Unwanted calls can be used to steal personal data or scam individuals out of their money
- There are several types of unwanted calls, including robocalls, spam calls, and scam calls
- Call blocking apps and features can help reduce the number of unwanted calls
- Registering your number on the National Do Not Call Registry can also help
- Being cautious when answering calls from unknown numbers is crucial to protecting your personal data
Understanding Unwanted Calls
Unwanted calls can take many forms, including robocalls, spam calls, and scam calls. Robocalls are automated calls that use pre-recorded messages to deliver their payload, while spam calls are typically made by live callers who are trying to sell a product or service. Scam calls, on the other hand, are designed to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information or sending money to the scammer. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), there were over 107,000 complaints about unwanted calls in 2020 alone, with reported losses totaling over $10 million.
There are several types of unwanted calls that you should be aware of. These include:
- Robocalls: Automated calls that use pre-recorded messages to deliver their payload
- Spam calls: Calls made by live callers who are trying to sell a product or service
- Scam calls: Calls designed to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information or sending money to the scammer
- Phishing calls: Calls that aim to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as passwords or financial information
Blocking Unwanted Calls
Fortunately, there are several ways to block unwanted calls and protect your personal data. One of the most effective ways is to use call blocking apps or features. These apps can help identify and block suspicious calls, reducing the number of unwanted calls you receive. Some popular call blocking apps include Nomorobo, Truecaller, and Hiya. Additionally, many phone service providers offer call blocking features, such as Verizon’s Call Filter and AT&T’s Call Protect.
| Call Blocking App | Features |
|---|---|
| Nomorobo | Blocks robocalls, spam calls, and scam calls; identifies suspicious calls |
| Truecaller | Blocks spam calls and scam calls; identifies unknown callers |
| Hiya | Blocks spam calls and scam calls; identifies suspicious calls |
Registering on the National Do Not Call Registry
Another way to reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive is to register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry. This registry is managed by the FTC and allows consumers to add their phone numbers to a list of numbers that telemarketers are not allowed to call. While this won’t block all unwanted calls, it can help reduce the number of calls you receive from legitimate telemarketers.
Being Cautious with Unknown Calls
Finally, it’s crucial to be cautious when answering calls from unknown numbers. If you don’t recognize the number, it’s best to let it go to voicemail. If you do answer the call, be wary of any requests for personal or financial information. Legitimate companies will never ask you to reveal sensitive information over the phone, so if someone is asking for this information, it’s likely a scam.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
There are several red flags to watch out for when receiving unwanted calls. These include:
- Requests for personal or financial information
- Threats or intimidation tactics
- Urgency or pressure to act quickly
- Unfamiliar or unverifiable caller ID information
How can I block unwanted calls on my phone?
+You can block unwanted calls on your phone by using call blocking apps or features, such as Nomorobo, Truecaller, or Hiya. Additionally, many phone service providers offer call blocking features, such as Verizon’s Call Filter and AT&T’s Call Protect.
What is the National Do Not Call Registry, and how can it help me?
+The National Do Not Call Registry is a list of phone numbers that telemarketers are not allowed to call. By registering your number on the registry, you can reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive from legitimate telemarketers.
How can I protect my personal data from unwanted calls?
+To protect your personal data from unwanted calls, be cautious when answering calls from unknown numbers, and never reveal sensitive information over the phone. Additionally, use call blocking apps or features, and register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry.