Survey calls can be a nuisance, especially for seniors who prefer uninterrupted time. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to manage these calls and regain control over your phone line.
What Is the National Do Not Call Registry?
The National Do Not Call Registry is a free service managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that allows individuals to opt out of receiving unsolicited telemarketing calls. By registering your number, you can reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive. However, it's important to note that this registry does not block calls from political organizations, charities, or survey companies. (consumer.ftc.gov)
How Can Seniors Block Unwanted Calls?
Seniors can utilize various methods to block unwanted calls:
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Call-Blocking Features: Many phone service providers offer call-blocking features. For instance, AT&T provides a service called Call Block, which allows users to block up to 10 numbers within their local calling area. To activate this feature, dial *60 and follow the prompts. (att.com)
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Third-Party Call-Blocking Apps: There are several apps designed to block unwanted calls. Apps like Hiya, RoboKiller, Truecaller, Call Control, and YouMail use databases of known spam numbers to automatically block or warn you about incoming calls. These apps are available for both iOS and Android devices. (legalclarity.org)
What Are the Limitations of the National Do Not Call Registry?
While the National Do Not Call Registry is effective in reducing unsolicited telemarketing calls, it does not block calls from political organizations, charities, or survey companies. Additionally, it may not stop robocalls from scammers who ignore the registry. (consumer.ftc.gov)
How Can Seniors Report Unwanted Calls?
Reporting unwanted calls helps authorities track and address these issues:
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FTC Complaint Assistant: Seniors can file a complaint about unwanted calls at DoNotCall.gov or report scams where they have lost money at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. (usa.gov)
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Phone Service Providers: Some providers offer services to help filter or block unwanted calls. For example, AT&T offers Call Protect, which automatically blocks calls from known scammers and alerts users about suspected spam calls. (att.com)
How Can Seniors Stay Vigilant Against Scam Calls?
Seniors should remain cautious and informed to protect themselves from scam calls:
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Do Not Engage: If you receive a call from an unknown number, especially one that seems suspicious, do not engage. Simply hang up. (tomsguide.com)
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Verify Caller Information: If a caller claims to be from a legitimate organization, hang up and call the organization back using a verified number to confirm the call's authenticity.
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Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common scam tactics and share this knowledge with friends and family to help protect them as well.
By implementing these strategies, seniors can effectively manage survey calls and other unwanted solicitations, ensuring a more peaceful and secure phone experience.
