Register for the National Do Not Call Registry
The National Do Not Call Registry is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that prohibits telemarketers from calling individuals who register their phone numbers. To register for this service, visit the FTC’s website and follow the directions. Once registered, it can take up to 31 days to take effect. After that, telemarketers are required by law to remove your information from their calling lists. It’s worth noting, however, that political organizations, charities, and survey companies are still permitted to call you.
Block Unknown and Suspected Numbers
Often, calls from telemarketers and call centers are made using automated dialing systems that generate random phone numbers. As a result, the number appearing on your caller ID may appear as “Unknown” or show a number that you don’t recognize. In this case, it may be worth blocking calls from these unknown and suspected numbers. Many smartphones provide the option to block calls from specific numbers. If you’re not sure how to do this, consult your phone’s instruction manual or search online for instructions specific to your device.
Install a Call-blocking App
As an alternative to manually blocking numbers, there are also numerous call-blocking apps that can be installed on your smartphone. Some popular options include Truecaller, Mr. Number, and Hiya. These apps work by identifying and blocking calls from known telemarketers and spam numbers. Some apps also provide the option to whitelist certain numbers, such as those from your contacts or emergency services.
Be Careful Who You Give Your Number To
One of the most effective ways to avoid receiving calls from telemarketers is to be mindful of who you give your phone number to. For example, when filling out online forms or entering contests, be sure to read the fine print and check for any clauses that allow your information to be shared with third parties. In addition, avoid providing your phone number to companies or organizations unless it’s absolutely necessary.
Respond with a Clear Message
If you do receive a call from a telemarketer or call center despite your efforts to avoid them, it’s important to respond with a clear message. Simply hanging up or ignoring the call may not effectively communicate your disinterest. Instead, be firm and state clearly that you do not wish to receive further calls from them. Be sure to take note of the company name and ask to be added to their internal Do Not Call list.
Conclusion
Receiving calls from telemarketers and call centers can be frustrating and time-consuming. However, by taking proactive steps such as registering for the National Do Not Call Registry, blocking unknown and suspected numbers, installing call-blocking apps, being mindful of who you give your number to, and responding with a clear message when necessary, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of these calls interrupting your day.