Unwanted phone calls, including robocalls and telemarketing, are a persistent nuisance for many Americans. Despite registering on the National Do Not Call Registry, these interruptions continue due to technological advancements and international telemarketing practices. (kiplinger.com)
Why Are Unwanted Calls So Persistent?
The National Do Not Call Registry primarily blocks sales calls within the U.S., but calls from political groups, charities, surveys, and debt collectors are still permitted. Additionally, many robocallers use spoofed numbers or obscure their identities, making traditional call-blocking methods less effective. (kiplinger.com)
How Can You Reduce Unwanted Calls?
- Utilize Built-in Smartphone Features
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iPhone Users: Activate the "Silence Unknown Callers" feature by navigating to Settings > Phone and toggling on Silence Unknown Callers. This will send calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. (consumerreports.org)
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Android Users: Enable "Block Calls From Unidentified Callers" by going to the Phone app > Settings > Blocked Numbers and toggling on the feature. (consumerreports.org)
- Register with the National Do Not Call Registry
Adding your number to the National Do Not Call Registry can reduce unsolicited sales calls. While it doesn't block all unwanted calls, it helps in filtering out legitimate telemarketers. (consumer.ftc.gov)
- Contact Your Service Provider
Many carriers offer call-blocking services to filter out robocalls before they reach you. For instance, AT&T provides ActiveArmor, Verizon offers Call Filter, and T-Mobile has Scam Shield. These services can be activated through your carrier's app or customer service. (consumeraffairs.com)
- Install Trusted Call-Blocking Apps
Third-party apps like RoboKiller, Hiya, and Truecaller maintain databases of known robocall numbers and can automatically block or warn you about potential spam calls. These apps are available for both iOS and Android devices. (kiplinger.com)
- Manually Block Unwanted Numbers
If you receive persistent calls from the same number, you can block them directly through your phone's settings. On iPhones, tap the "i" icon next to the number in your recent calls and select "Block this Caller." On Android devices, press and hold the number in your call log and choose "Block/Report Spam." (numberbarn.com)
- Adopt Safe-Call Habits
Avoid answering calls from unknown numbers. If it's important, the caller will leave a voicemail or contact you through other means. This practice helps in reducing the chances of engaging with potential scammers. (avast.com)
How Does RoboKiller Stand Out?
RoboKiller is a market-leading solution designed to effectively block unwanted calls. Unlike some competitors, RoboKiller offers features such as automatic blocking of known robocall numbers, real-time spam call detection, and a user-friendly interface. Additionally, RoboKiller provides a unique feature that answers spam calls with pre-recorded messages, wasting the scammers' time and reducing their efficiency. (kiplinger.com)
Conclusion
While it's challenging to eliminate all unwanted calls, implementing a combination of the strategies above can significantly reduce interruptions. Utilizing built-in smartphone features, registering with the National Do Not Call Registry, contacting your service provider for call-blocking services, installing trusted call-blocking apps like RoboKiller, manually blocking persistent numbers, and adopting safe-call habits can collectively enhance your phone experience.
Highlights:
- Tired of Unwanted Calls? Here's How to Help Thwart the Robocaller Invasion, Published on Friday, March 06
