It is likely that you have experienced unsolicited phone calls from telemarketers or scammers using direct contact or “robo” call methods. In the direct contact method, a person asks for you by name and attempts to sell you something that you don’t want. The “robo” call method is more common because it is more efficient. “Robo” call technology uses a computer to call multiple phone numbers and presents a recording of what they want you to be notified about. In 2019, about half the calls in the U.S. were “Robo” calls (about 60 billion). Some “Robo” calls may be helpful such as notifying you about upcoming medical or car repair appointments, prescription shipments, critical events, etc. Solicitation and scammer calls are the downside. Scammers attempt to talk you into giving them money without any intention of repayment or providing a good or service. So what do you do about it?
There are many suggestions out there, so here are a few: The most prevalent suggestion is to get on the FCC “do not call” registry. Telemarketers are supposed to review this list and not call phone numbers on the list. If you get an unsolicited call, you can report it to the FCC. This registry is intended to prevent sales calls only. Politicians, surveying organizations, charitable organizations and debt collectors are exempt from the registry. Also if you have done business with a company or returned a call to a company, they can call you anytime. Many companies…
