Seven Strategies to Stop Annoying Spam Calls

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How to Stop Annoying Spam Calls

Spam phone calls are the number one complaint received by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). These calls, often from scammers, try to trick you into giving up money or personal information. U.S. consumers receive about 4 billion robocalls each month, many of which are spam calls. Here are some effective ways to stop these annoying calls.

1. Register With the National Do Not Call Registry

One way to reduce unwanted calls is to add your phone number to the National Do Not Call Registry. You can join the registry online or by calling 888-382-1222. This service is free and helps stop legitimate companies from making sales calls to you. However, it won’t block all calls, as scammers can still make illegal calls to you.

2. Block Spam Numbers on Your Phone

Before blocking numbers, avoid answering calls from unknown numbers. If you do answer and it’s a spam call, hang up immediately. You can block numbers through your phone settings, your cell carrier’s call-blocking app, or third-party services. Depending on your provider, blocked calls may go directly to voicemail or you might not receive any notification at all.

3. Silence Unknown/Junk Callers

If you have an Apple iPhone, Samsung Android, or Google Pixel, you can use free call-blocking features available through your device’s settings. For example, iPhones offer a “Silence Unknown Callers” feature, Androids have “Smart Call,” and Pixel phones offer “Call Screen.” Landline service providers like AT&T, Comcast, Spectrum, and Verizon also offer similar call-blocking functions.

4. Screen Spam Calls With Carrier Tools

Wireless service providers offer tools to screen calls, including free and paid versions. For instance, AT&T’s ActiveArmor app blocks suspected spam calls, T-Mobile’s Scam Shield app offers call blocking and caller ID, and Verizon’s Call Filter app detects and blocks spam calls.

5. Get a Call-Blocking App

Several third-party companies offer call-blocking apps. Some popular options include:

• Call Control: Blocks thousands of spam calls and texts using user reports and Do Not Call complaints. The basic version is free, and the premium version costs $29.99 per year.
• Robokiller: Claims to have blocked 600 million spam calls. It also screens calls and texts. The app offers a seven-day free trial, then costs $4.99 per month or $39.99 per year.
• Truecaller: Automatically blocks spam calls and texts, identifies callers, and records phone calls. The basic version is free, with premium versions ranging from $9.99 per month to $249 per year.
• YouMail: Stops spam calls and voicemails. Monthly costs range from $5.99 to $34.99, depending on the features you choose.

6. Report Phone Numbers from Scammers

Report scam phone numbers to the FCC to help stop scammers from contacting others. On the FCC’s phone form, select “unwanted calls/texts” and then “all other unwanted calls/texts.”

7. Take Control of Your Personal Information

Experian’s personal privacy scan can show whether your phone number is publicly available on people search sites. This service also checks if other information like your age, home address, and email address is exposed. If your information is found online, Experian will guide you on the next steps to secure your data. You can upgrade to activate recurring scans and get help with removing your data from these sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to Do if You Answer a Spam Call

If you answer a spam call, hang up immediately. Do not provide any personal information.

Why Am I Getting So Many Spam Calls?

Spam calls are often generated by automated systems that dial random or sequential numbers. Your number may also be on a list that scammers have obtained.

What to Do if You Answered “Yes” to a Phone Scammer

If you accidentally provided information to a scammer, contact your bank and credit card companies immediately to secure your accounts.

The Bottom Line

Scam calls and other unwanted calls can be a big pain. But you can ease or even prevent the pain by signing up for the National Do Not Call Registry and embracing technology that’s designed to block or limit nuisance calls.

For any mortgage service needs, call O1ne Mortgage at 213-732-3074. We are here to help you with all your mortgage needs!

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