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.
• 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://goo.gl/cdPm8O
* 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.
http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/one-ring-cel ... ing-your-wallet
• 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.
402-458-6248: Sometimes no reply when I answer. Sometimes, "This is Josh from Metamorphic Research Group (REALLY?!!) with a quick 2-minute survey about Nebraska." Goes on to ask for someone by first name only..."if this is X, press 1, if this is not X, press 2." Regardless of which number you press, it immediately launches into survey questions. I press a bunch of zeroes, which seems to F/U the system...it hangs up. I have called this number and always get a voice mailbox. Have left innumerable messages re: do not call me. These have been ignored. I have also reported to the FCC; it looks like this number is one of the open ones that is passed around from one Do Not Call scofflaw to another. I think we should all get together and campaign to have the FCC notify the PHONE COMPANY when these numbers are being used for this type of stuff and then the FCC should fine the PHONE COMPANY when the nuisance calling continues. That would stop it.
3 to 4 calls a day from this number. I answer and hear nothing. Than it disconnects. Just blocked them through my phone company but not before calling them, leaving a choice message.
They call 3 - 4 times per day, every day. I have never answered. I have blocked the calls but then they call from another 402-858-xxxx, it keeps changing. I keep blocking.