Traveling can expose you to an increased number of spam calls, disrupting your journey and potentially compromising your privacy. Implementing effective strategies can significantly reduce these interruptions. Here's how you can protect yourself:
Why Are Spam Calls More Common While Traveling?
When traveling, especially across different regions or countries, your phone number may be exposed to unfamiliar networks and local telemarketers. This exposure increases the likelihood of receiving unsolicited calls. (mcafee.com)
How Can I Utilize Built-in Phone Features to Block Spam Calls?
Both iPhone and Android devices offer built-in features to help filter out spam calls:
iPhone Users:
- Silence Unknown Callers:
- Navigate to Settings > Phone.
- Toggle on Silence Unknown Callers. This feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. (us.norton.com)
Android Users:
- Caller ID & Spam Protection:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three-dot menu > Settings > Caller ID & Spam.
- Enable See caller and spam ID and Filter spam calls. This will identify and warn you about potential spam calls. (androidauthority.com)
What Role Do Carrier Services Play in Blocking Spam Calls?
Many mobile carriers provide additional tools to combat spam calls:
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AT&T ActiveArmor:
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Offers spam call blocking and fraud risk alerts.
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Verizon Call Filter:
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Identifies and blocks potential spam calls.
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T-Mobile Scam Shield:
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Provides scam call protection and caller ID verification.
These services can be activated through your carrier's app or customer service. (consumeraffairs.com)
How Do Third-Party Apps Enhance Spam Call Protection?
Third-party applications can offer advanced features to further reduce spam calls:
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Robokiller:
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Identifies and blocks spam calls using a vast database.
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Provides real-time alerts and detailed reports.
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Offers a free trial period for users to assess its effectiveness.
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Hiya:
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Offers spam call blocking and caller ID services.
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Provides a community-based spam list to enhance accuracy.
These apps can be downloaded from your device's app store and often require a subscription for full features. (consumer.ftc.gov)
What Are Some Additional Tips to Minimize Spam Calls While Traveling?
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Register with the National Do Not Call Registry:
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Visit donotcall.gov to add your number to the registry, reducing telemarketing calls. (consumer.ftc.gov)
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Be Cautious with Your Phone Number:
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Avoid sharing your number on untrusted websites or with unfamiliar entities.
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Use a Secondary Number:
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Consider using a secondary number for online forms or less secure platforms.
How Can I Report Unwanted Calls?
Reporting spam calls helps authorities take action against scammers:
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Federal Trade Commission (FTC):
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Report unwanted calls at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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Federal Communications Commission (FCC):
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File a complaint at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of spam calls you receive while traveling, ensuring a more secure and uninterrupted journey.
Highlights:
- New Washington state law should mean fewer spam robocalls, Published on Tuesday, May 16
