Robocalls have become an increasing nuisance in recent years. Americans receive over 50 billion robocalls per year, with around 33 million robocalls made daily. These unwanted calls disrupt people’s lives and often are used to run scams that have cost consumers over $29 billion in 2022 alone. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce these annoying robocalls.
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Register Your Number on the National Do Not Call Registry
The National Do Not Call Registry allows you to register your phone number to reduce calls from legitimate telemarketers. Once registered, telemarketers have 31 days to stop calling your number. Registering can be done online at www.donotcall.gov or by calling 1-888-382-1222.
Pros:
- Free and easy to register
- Reduces calls from legitimate businesses
Cons:
- Does not block illegal or scam robocalls
- Number stays on registry for only 5 years
Use Call Blocking Tools
Carrier Call Blocking
Most major carriers such as Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint offer free robocall blocking tools:
- Verizon – Call Filter app
- AT&T – Call Protect app
- T-Mobile – Scam Block and Scam ID
- Sprint – Premium Caller ID
These tools identify and block known scam calls using algorithms and updated databases.
Pros:
- Free for customers
- Automatic blocking in background
Cons:
- Not 100% effective at stopping robocalls
Third Party Call Blocking Apps
Apps like Nomorobo, RoboKiller, and YouMail provide enhanced call blocking services for monthly fees. Features include predictive blocking, answer bots, and robocall alerts.
Pros:
- Very effective, claims to block 99% of robocalls
- Advanced features like answer bots
Cons:
- Monthly subscription fee
- Can occasionally block legitimate calls
Don’t Answer Calls from Unknown Numbers
Robocalls often use “spoofing” to show fake caller IDs. If you don’t recognize a number, don’t answer. Let it go to voicemail and block the number if needed. This simple step can reduce headaches.
Pros:
- Very easy to do
- Avoids engaging with illegal robocallers
Cons:
- Could miss important calls from numbers not in your contacts
Hang Up and Report Illegal Robocalls
If you accidentally answer an illegal robocall, hang up right away. Don’t press any numbers or speak to the caller. Report the call to the FTC at www.donotcall.gov or 1-888-382-1222. This helps authorities track illegal calling patterns.
Pros:
- Helps authorities locate scammers
- Quick and easy process
Cons:
- Doesn’t directly stop calls from reaching you
Be Cautious Sharing Your Number
Only share your phone number when absolutely necessary. Fake contests, online forms, and suspicious websites can sell your number to robocallers.
Pros:
- Limits number of organizations that have your phone number
Cons:
- Inconvenient when phone number is required for services
Utilize Available Blocking Features
Both iPhones and Android devices have built-in settings to block specific numbers and filter unknown callers. Use them in combination with carrier and third party apps.
Pros:
- Free options included with your smartphone
- Easy to set up and customize
Cons:
- Very basic compared to other call blocking tools
- Requires manually blocking each number
While not foolproof, using a combination of these techniques can significantly reduce annoying robocalls. Be patient and persistent, and you’ll soon enjoy fewer disruptions from unwanted callers. The government and carriers continue efforts to authenticate calls at the network level, which will hopefully eliminate illegal spoofing. Until then, arm yourself with call blocking apps and a discerning eye before answering the phone.
