How did they get your number? I've got news for you. I have your number. Everyone has your number. They aren't thinking, "Hey, let's dial David's number." They attempt phone calls using combinations of digits in the correct format. Sometimes, those digits happen to form your number, sometimes mine.
guys. if you're smart enough to use an Android phone install mrnumber on your android phone. You can add every single one of these scumbags to your block list with ease and then it will hang up on them each subsequent time they call. So much better than trying to do it from your wireless carrier or landline block lists -- since these thieves change their numbers constantly (it's just CID spoofing).
God knows where they actually operate from... It will take some serious FTC and FCC action and the work of the D.A.s office in the states in which they operate. If they're operating out of Canada or another country, who knows...
The short answer. Block every number you don't know that doesn't leave a message. Never talk to them. Never 'opt out'. DNC is completely ignored.
I just got a call from this number a couple hours ago, no voicemail left though. This is the umpteenth Oregon number to repetitively call me, and all those numbers are "mysterious" non-message-leavers or scammers posing as telemarketers.
@mark in sf - Sadly, a lot of us go with what phone best fits our budget at the time of sign-on, and most of those phones don't have Block capabilities. I still can't afford a phone that does it. Just gotta roll my eyes and cut the ringer off when I see a number that's not in my address list.
Two months ago, I added myself to the DNC List. After one month, any *legit business* that calls you is then wide open for prosecution.
But, yeah, just like the other call-plagued folks who have signed onto the DNC, I still get loads of these calls.