>> I'm on the No Call List. I guess that means nothing. <<
You are partially correct. The DNC list means nothing to telescum and other illegitimate telespammers.
The DNC list does not automatically block calls. Instead, it provides a list of "do not call" phone numbers to legitimate telemarketers who pay a fee for the list.
The DNC list exempts political callers, survey organizations, charities, companies with preexisting business relationships, and some other organizations (such as debt collectors), but these organizations might have their own, internal Do Not Call list (ask them).
The DNC list is not effective against criminals, spammers and scammers, because those people do not subscribe to the DNC list, and do not care if you are on or off that list.
Its purpose is to stop calls from legitimate telemarketers, and it does a pretty good job at that.
Here is your reading assignment:
http://www.ftc.gov/news-events/media-resource ... try/enforcement
Modern technology has given telescammers the tools to call you.
Since those telescammers are criminals, they ignore both the Do Not Call list and any request you might make.
Modern technology can also protect you, if YOU do a few simple things!
The first thing to do is buy a call blocker device, service or app.
Then, use it correctly.
Google "call blocker" for more information.
If you cannot afford or use such a tool, 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.