10 Ways to Stop Spam Calls and Keep Your Peace of Mind
Patricia K. Flanigan, Ed.D.
Executive Director at Smart Strategies for Successful Living
As an adult, you must have received countless spam calls over the years. What may have started as an annoying distraction has now become a headache that interferes with daily activities, meetings, and general mental well-being. However, you can take control of your phone and your peace of mind by implementing specific measures to reduce spam calls.
Here are effective ways you can use to limit the number of spam calls you receive.
(1)? Do Not Answer Unknown Numbers
The number one rule to prevent spam calls is to ignore calls from unknown numbers. Scammers depend on the curiosity of humans, hoping to pique your interest and catch you off-guard. With unknown numbers, it's impossible to know who's on the other end of the line.
(2)? Block Spam Callers
Take advantage of your phone's blocking feature. This feature is accessible through the settings menu of your phone app. Block numbers that frequently call, especially those that use automated machines to send spam calls.
(3)? Sign Up for the "Do Not Call" Registry List
The “Do Not Call” registry is a database of phone numbers that telemarketers are prohibited by law from calling. Therefore, registering your phone numbers with the list will ensure that legitimate telemarketers do not disturb you. By-law, telemarketers must also remove numbers on the “Do Not Call” registry list from their calling lists.
(4)? Install a Spam Blocking App
A Smartphone is not just a gadget that makes and receives calls; it's an essential tool in modern-day life. Therefore, you need to protect your investment using a spam-blocking app. This app will search for known spam numbers and block calls from those numbers.
(5) Screen Calls with Caller ID
Most smartphones come with Caller ID. However, if yours does not, you can download a Caller ID app. Caller ID helps you identify the caller by displaying the name and number of the party calling you.
(6)? Do Not Respond to Automated Systems
Full automated voice systems are a common tool used by spam callers. Do not respond to them. Instead, hang up. Also, note that not all spam calls are automated; some are made by people who use manipulative sales tactics.
(7) Avoid Sharing Your Phone Number
Be cautious about the places and sites that you share your phone number. Use a fake number in place of your real number when ordering food online and avoid signing up for online surveys that may require a phone number.
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(8)? Verify Requests for Payments
Some scammers disguise themselves as reputable companies and ask for payment over the phone. If you receive such calls, do not make any payments until you've verified the caller's identity.
(9) Be Careful When Entering your contact Info on Forms
Do not give out your phone number on forms that are not absolutely necessary. Be cautious about social media sites that require phone numbers for verification.
(10) Delete Email Spam
Email spam is as frustrating as phone spam. Therefore, when you come across email spam, delete it straight away.
Spam calls can ruin the peace of mind that any adult looks forward to at the end of a busy day. Admittedly, these calls are intrusive, manipulative, and sometimes dangerous. However, as previously mentioned, there are precautions to take to prevent spam calls. If you follow these suggestions, you can enjoy your phone without worrying about will pop up on your screen- a genuine call or spam!
**Article Originally Published at: CLICK HERE
Written by: Colin McAllister
About the Author: Colin McAllister is an experienced and knowledgeable Information Technology professional, specializing in telehealth systems. He has a home based in Seattle, however he regularly travels throughout the United States to share his expertise. In his free time, Colin enjoys engaging in outdoor activities such as fishing, boating and hiking with friends. His passion for these activities makes him a great asset to any team environment.
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