Dealing with persistent telemarketing calls can be frustrating. To effectively reduce these interruptions, consider the following strategies:
1. Register with the National Do Not Call Registry
Start by adding your number to the National Do Not Call Registry. This free service requires telemarketers to refrain from calling your number within 31 days. However, it doesn't block calls from political organizations, charities, or surveys.
2. Utilize Call-Blocking Apps
Several mobile applications can help identify and block unwanted calls:
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Robokiller: This app uses a global database of analyzed calls and machine learning to identify and block spam calls. It also offers "Answer Bots" to engage spam callers, wasting their time and reducing future calls. Robokiller is available for both iOS and Android devices.
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Truecaller: With a large community-driven database, Truecaller identifies and blocks spam calls and messages. It also provides caller ID services, helping you recognize unknown numbers. Truecaller is available for both iOS and Android devices.
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Hiya: Hiya offers spam and robocall blocking, along with caller ID features. It integrates with various devices and carriers, providing real-time alerts for potential spam calls. Hiya is available for both iOS and Android devices.
3. Activate Built-in Device Features
Modern smartphones come equipped with features to help manage unwanted calls:
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iOS Devices: Enable "Silence Unknown Callers" by navigating to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers. This feature silences calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent calls, or Siri suggestions.
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Android Devices: Use the built-in spam protection by opening the Phone app, tapping the three-dot menu, selecting Settings > Spam and Call Screen, and enabling "Filter spam calls."
4. Leverage Carrier Services
Many U.S. carriers offer services to block spam calls:
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AT&T: Offers ActiveArmor, which provides spam call blocking and alerts.
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Verizon: Provides Call Filter, which identifies and blocks spam calls.
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T-Mobile: Offers Scam Shield, which provides scam call blocking and alerts.
5. Report Unwanted Calls
If you continue to receive unwanted calls, report them to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This helps authorities track and take action against violators.
Conclusion
By combining these strategies—registering with the National Do Not Call Registry, using call-blocking apps, activating device features, leveraging carrier services, and reporting unwanted calls—you can significantly reduce telemarketing interruptions on your phone.
