Insurance spam calls are a persistent nuisance for many Americans, often disrupting daily life and potentially leading to scams. Implementing a combination of strategies can significantly reduce these unwanted calls.
What Are Insurance Spam Calls and Why Are They a Problem?
Insurance spam calls are unsolicited communications from companies or individuals promoting insurance products or services. These calls can be intrusive, time-consuming, and sometimes deceptive, aiming to collect personal information or sell unnecessary policies. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) received over 1.8 million do-not-call complaints in 2024, with the most reported scam types being impostor calls, warranty scams, and student loan fraud. (whocalledus.net)
How Can I Register to Reduce Unwanted Calls?
Registering your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry is a proactive step to reduce unsolicited calls. While this service is free and effective against legitimate telemarketers, it may not stop illegal robocalls or scammers. To register:
- Visit DoNotCall.gov.
- Click "Register Your Phone."
- Enter your phone number and email address.
- Confirm your registration via the email link.
Alternatively, you can register by phone by calling 1-888-382-1222 from the number you wish to register. (wecaresolutions.org)
What Built-In Features Can Help Block Spam Calls?
Modern smartphones offer built-in features to help block or filter spam calls:
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iPhone Users:
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Navigate to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers and toggle it on. This feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. (wecaresolutions.org)
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Android Users:
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Open the Phone app > Settings > Caller ID & spam. Enable "See caller & spam ID" and "Filter spam calls" to automatically block suspected spam calls. (whocalledus.net)
How Can My Mobile Carrier Assist in Blocking Spam Calls?
Many U.S. carriers provide services to help block spam calls:
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T-Mobile:
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Offers the Scam Shield app, which identifies and blocks scam calls. Users can activate Scam Block by dialing #662# from their T-Mobile device. (t-mobile.com)
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AT&T:
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Provides the ActiveArmor app, which automatically blocks fraud and flags spam calls. (whocalledus.net)
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Verizon:
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Features the Call Filter app, which screens and auto-blocks incoming spam based on risk level. (whocalledus.net)
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UScellular:
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Offers Call Guardian, which identifies and blocks suspected spam calls automatically at the network level. (uscellular.com)
Are There Third-Party Apps That Can Help Block Spam Calls?
Yes, several third-party apps can enhance spam call blocking:
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RoboKiller:
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Blocks 99% of robocalls and can even waste scammers' time with AI "Answer Bots." (whocalledus.net)
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Nomorobo:
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Award-winning service that won the FTC's Robocall Challenge. Excellent for landlines and mobile phones. (whocalledus.net)
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Hiya:
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One of the largest spam number databases. Works on both iPhone and Android. Trusted by AT&T as the backbone for ActiveArmor. (whocalledus.net)
What Additional Steps Can I Take to Protect Myself?
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Avoid Engaging with Unknown Callers: Do not answer calls from numbers you don't recognize. Legitimate callers will leave a voicemail. (whocalledus.net)
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Be Cautious with Personal Information: Never share personal or financial information over the phone unless you're certain of the caller's identity.
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Report Unwanted Calls: If you receive a scam call, report it to the FTC or the FCC to help authorities track and dismantle scam networks. (whocalledus.net)
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of insurance spam calls you receive, leading to a more peaceful and secure communication experience.
