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The Ultimate Guide to Handling Telemarketer and Scam Calls Efficiently

January 06, 2025Workplace1979
The Ultimate Guide to Handling Telemarketer and Scam Calls Efficiently

The Ultimate Guide to Handling Telemarketer and Scam Calls Efficiently

Dealing with telemarketers and scammers can be both time-consuming and stressful. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you handle these unwanted calls effectively.

Introduction to the Problem

Telemarketers and scammers are always looking for ways to reach and manipulate you. Robocalls and unsolicited calls can be a persistent annoyance. However, there are strategies and tools that can help you minimize their impact on your daily life and digital privacy.

Step 1: Use Robocall Blocking Apps

The first step in dealing with unwanted calls is to use an app that can block these calls. Both ATT and Verizon offer free apps for their customers. Additionally, there are several paid apps that promise to be more effective. These apps can identify and block most of the unwanted calls.

Step 2: Listen for Unusual Pauses

Even after blocking apps, some calls may slip through. If a call gets past the screening app, listen carefully for an unusual pause after you say hello. Telemarketing call centers often use machines to dial numbers and then switch to an operator only after they have an active line. This process generally takes several seconds. A human will rarely take more than two seconds to respond. If you notice a long pause, hang up before the call is switched to a person.

Step 3: Respond with a Firm 'No' and Hang Up

If the call doesn’t get past the previous steps, the best approach is to firmly say no and hang up before the caller has a chance to respond. This simple, decisive action can save you from further harassment.

Step 4: Ignore and Move On

The most effective way to deal with telemarketers and spammers is to ignore them. Don’t waste time on further interactions. Simply hang up and go on with your day.

Additional Tips

Here are a few additional tips to help you handle these calls more effectively:

Report Unsolicited Calls: If the call gets through and you have some time, consider sending a cease-and-desist letter or review prompts to be removed from call lists. Google the number to see if you can find out who it is and remove yourself from their call list online. Delete Spam Emails: If the call was from a spam email, simply delete it. If it’s from a legitimate company, unsubscribe from their mailing list. However, be cautious and verify the legitimacy of the company. Do Not Block or Call Back: It’s generally not advisable to block the number or call back, as these numbers are likely spoofed. Your time is valuable, so save it for more productive activities. Don't Answer Unrecognized Calls: If you get a call from an unknown number, either don’t answer it at all or answer with a single 'hello' and hang up immediately if there is no immediate response. This is likely a call being transferred to a salesperson or scammer.

HANG UP AND BLOCK THEIR NUMBER. I’ve been doing it since I got this phone on February 14, 2019, and have blocked about 80 so far.