What options does one have to defend themselves against intrusive callers?
• The Do Not Call list (Federal or State)
Works, but is effective against ONLY "legitimate" telemarketers. Political callers, surveys and some other callers are exempt. Scammers ignore the DNC list.
• NoMoRobo
A system offered by some telephone providers, to help automatically block robocalls. Google "nomorobo" to see if it works with your phone provider.
• Shouting, screaming, swearing at the caller
Nope. Does not stop calls. May make you hoarse, and will disturb nearby people.
• Call blocker app, device or service
Could be a good choice (even though the scammers can use fake phone numbers), and some apps are free!
Google "call blocker" for more information, or check your favorite online sales site for a list.
http://gg.gg/blockers
Your phone provider may also offer blocking services. Check their web page for information.
If you cannot use any of the above defenses, then:
• Do not answer calls from unknown numbers ... let them go to voicemail or answering service
• Do NOT return calls from unknown numbers! All that does is verify your phone number! And, in some cases, those return calls may cost $20 or more to complete.
• If you have a "dumb" cell phone, assign the scammer's number to a group named "scammers" (or similar). Then, assign a silent ringtone to that group.
This number called today at 6 p.m. (Every day a new area code and number pop up.) This one identified as Insurance Srvc--surely just another scam. I get two or three new scam or telemarket number perday--have been keeping a list for over a year and it's beyond 3 pages now. Have reported the entire list to government websites, but nothing seems to be done about it. Hate to change our number which we've had for 54 years, and not sure it would stop these calls. Have NO idea where they did our numbers or demographics--wondering if it is State agencies (like DMVs) providing or selling this info. I hear the government is offering big bucks to some genius who can stop this stuff. Hoping that happens . . .