Robo-calls are more than just a daily nuisance—they’re a growing threat to your privacy and security.
With an estimated 4 billion robo-calls made each month, these intrusive calls often come from scammers attempting to steal personal information or trick people into financial fraud. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reports that unwanted calls are the top consumer complaint, proving just how widespread the issue has become.
If you’re tired of these nuisance calls, keep reading for some tips to help reduce and block them effectively.
1. Register for the Do Not Call Registry
One of the first steps you should take is signing up for the National Do Not Call Registry, a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
By adding your number to this list, you can opt out of most telemarketing calls. The registry only contains your phone number—no other personal details—and importantly, it doesn’t distinguish between a landline and a cell phone, so it’s good for different types of numbers.
Keep in mind that while this won’t stop all robo calls—especially from scammers who ignore the registry—it can help reduce the number of legitimate telemarketing calls you receive.
Register your number by visiting donotcall.gov or calling 1-888-382-1222.
2. Take Advantage of Your Phone’s Built-in Features
Most smartphones come equipped with built-in features to block unwanted calls. On both Android and iPhones, you can manually block numbers, silence unknown callers, or even report spam calls directly to your carrier.
Be sure to check your phone’s settings and enable any available security features to reduce unwanted calls.
3. Use Call Blocking Apps
Even with your number on the Do Not Call list, scammers can still reach you. To counter this, consider using a call-blocking app.
Several apps are available for both Android and iOS devices that can filter out known scam numbers. These apps use real-time databases to detect and block fraudulent calls before they reach you. Popular call-blocking apps include:
There are several options that are available through your service provider or third-party apps, including Hiya Call ID and Block, T-Mobile Scam Shield, and the Verizon Call Filter. Check your phone’s app store for reviews and features to find the best fit for your needs.
4. Avoid Answering Unknown Calls
A simple yet effective strategy is to ignore calls from unknown numbers. If it’s a legitimate call, the person will leave a voicemail. Scammers often hang up or leave suspicious robotic messages. If you’re unsure whether a call is real, let it go to voicemail and review the message before responding.
If you have any questions or concerns about scams or technology, we’re here to help. Contact our Tech Support Help Portal to talk with our experts today.
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