I remember watching a television show featuring a story on identity theft and fraud. The people in the show warned us to NEVER answer with the word "YES" because they record you saying yes and then have proof that you agreed to their request. When they ask you if you can hear them. Take control of the court by turning it to your purpose. For example, don't answer any questions. Say, who are you? What is the purpose of your call? What do you want? If by 2 or 3 of these questions, you are not satisfied, simply HANG UP!
If you've got kids who live at home with you, who answer the phone, make sure they understand this too! Remember never answer "YES" unless you are sure you know who you are speaking to and the purpose of his or her call.
Best practice is to never answer a call you don't recognize. Then, they can't record you saying anything and teach your kids not to answer the phone, period.
You have "hit the nail on the head", Patriot 327 !! I couldn't have said it better myself. The "system" depends on the willingness of its' victims. If you don't answer any and all calls that (allegedly) originate from numbers or areas that you don't recognize, you will never be a victim - it's just that simple. See ya around the campfire !
Received a call today, June 20th 2015 at 7:45 PM and the Caller ID displayed "Sandy Springs MD 301-232-0073" and as usual, no VM was left. Since no VM was left, the call wasn't important to begin with.
Just my opinion, but I believe it might be the F.O.P.'s calling again and disturbing individuals seeking donations as a majority of their calls seem to come from Aspen Hill, Bethesda, Bowie area of MD.