Survey calls, often a form of robocalls, are automated calls delivering recorded messages to a large number of phones. While some surveys are legitimate, many are unwanted and can be intrusive. Protecting yourself from these calls involves a combination of registration, built-in phone features, carrier services, and third-party applications.
What Are Survey Calls and Why Are They a Concern?
Survey calls are automated calls that deliver recorded messages to a large number of phones. While some surveys are legitimate, many are unwanted and can be intrusive. They can be a nuisance and may lead to unwanted solicitations or potential scams.
How Can I Reduce Survey Calls Using Built-in Phone Features?
For iPhone Users:
- Silence Unknown Callers: This feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. To activate:
- Go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers and toggle it on.
For Android Users:
- Caller ID & Spam Protection: Many Android phones offer built-in spam protection. To enable:
- Open the Phone app > Settings > Caller ID & Spam and toggle on See caller & spam ID.
What Carrier Services Are Available to Block Survey Calls?
Major U.S. carriers offer services to help block unwanted calls:
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T-Mobile:
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Scam Shield: Identifies and blocks scam calls. To activate:
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Dial *#662# to enable Scam Block. (t-mobile.com)
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Verizon:
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Call Filter: Screens incoming calls and blocks high-risk spam. To activate:
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Go to My Verizon > Account > Call Filter. (consumerreports.org)
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AT&T:
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ActiveArmor: Provides automatic fraud blocking and suspected spam alerts. To activate:
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Download the AT&T ActiveArmor app from the App Store or Google Play. (whocalledus.net)
How Do Call-Blocking Apps Help in Blocking Survey Calls?
Third-party call-blocking apps can enhance your protection:
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Truecaller: Recognized as a top call-blocking app, it offers real-time caller ID, spam call auto-block, and fraud detection alerts. (rahsha.in)
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Hiya: Provides robust call protection and is the default call protection app for AT&T, T-Mobile, and some Verizon customers. (rahsha.in)
What Additional Steps Can I Take to Prevent Survey Calls?
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Register with the National Do Not Call Registry: This helps reduce calls from legitimate telemarketers. Register at donotcall.gov. (consumer.ftc.gov)
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Be Cautious with Your Phone Number: Limit sharing your number online and avoid entering it on forms, sweepstakes, or apps unless necessary.
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Ignore Unknown Numbers: Let unknown numbers go to voicemail; legitimate callers will leave a message.
How Does Robokiller Compare to Other Call-Blocking Solutions?
Robokiller is a market-leading solution that offers advanced features to block unwanted calls, including survey calls. Unlike some competitors, Robokiller provides a comprehensive approach by combining call-blocking technology with a vast database of known spam numbers, ensuring higher accuracy in identifying and blocking unwanted calls.
By implementing these strategies and utilizing available tools, you can significantly reduce the number of unwanted survey calls you receive, leading to a more peaceful and secure phone experience.
