Survey calls can be intrusive and time-consuming. While some are legitimate, others may be unwanted or even fraudulent. Implementing the following strategies can help reduce the frequency of these calls:
What Is the National Do Not Call Registry?
The National Do Not Call Registry is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that allows consumers to opt out of receiving unsolicited sales calls. By registering your phone number, you can significantly decrease the number of telemarketing calls you receive. However, it's important to note that this registry does not block calls from political organizations, charities, debt collectors, or survey companies. (consumer.ftc.gov)
How Can I Register My Number on the Do Not Call List?
To add your number to the National Do Not Call Registry:
- Visit DoNotCall.gov.
- Click on "Register Your Phone."
- Enter your phone number and email address.
- Confirm your registration through the verification email sent to you.
Alternatively, you can register by phone:
- Call 1-888-382-1222 from the phone you wish to register.
Once registered, your number will remain on the list until you remove it or it is disconnected. It may take up to 31 days for telemarketers to update their lists and stop calling. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Why Do I Still Receive Survey Calls After Registering?
Even after registering on the Do Not Call Registry, you may continue to receive survey calls. This is because survey companies are exempt from the registry's restrictions. Additionally, some robocalls may still get through, especially if they are from scammers or illegal sources. (consumer.ftc.gov)
How Can I Block Unwanted Survey Calls?
To further reduce unwanted survey calls, consider the following steps:
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Use Call-Blocking Apps: Many smartphones offer built-in features or third-party apps that can identify and block unwanted calls. These apps use databases of known spam numbers to filter out unwanted calls. For example, apps like Mr. Number and Hiya are popular choices. (consumer.ftc.gov)
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Enable Call-Labeling Services: Some carriers provide call-labeling services that display warnings like "Spam" or "Scam Likely" on incoming calls from suspected telemarketers. This can help you decide whether to answer or ignore the call. (consumer.ftc.gov)
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Manually Block Numbers: If you receive repeated calls from the same number, you can manually block it through your phone's settings. This will prevent future calls from that specific number. (consumer.ftc.gov)
What Should I Do If I Receive an Unwanted Survey Call?
If you receive an unwanted survey call:
- Do Not Engage: Avoid pressing any keys or responding to prompts, as this may lead to more unwanted calls.
- Hang Up Immediately: Simply hang up the call to avoid further interaction.
- Report the Call: You can report unwanted calls to the FTC through DoNotCall.gov. This helps authorities track and take action against illegal telemarketing practices. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Are There Any Additional Measures I Can Take?
While the above steps can significantly reduce unwanted survey calls, it's also advisable to:
- Be Cautious with Your Phone Number: Limit sharing your phone number to trusted sources and avoid posting it publicly.
- Stay Informed: Regularly update your knowledge about new scams and telemarketing practices to stay protected.
By implementing these strategies, you can effectively reduce the number of unwanted survey calls you receive and protect your privacy.
