Spam phone calls can be an incessant annoyance, disrupting our daily lives and encroaching on our privacy. Fortunately, there are several legal strategies to combat this modern nuisance effectively. Here are seven actionable ways to fight back against spam phone numbers.

1. Register with the National Do Not Call Registry

One of the first steps you should take to reduce unwanted calls is to register your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry. This service, managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), allows you to opt-out of telemarketing calls from legitimate companies. Once you register, telemarketers are required by law to stop calling you within 31 days. You can register your number by calling 1-888-382-1222 or visiting donotcall.gov .

2. Use Call-Blocking Features on Your Phone

Both Android and iPhone devices come equipped with built-in call-blocking features that help minimize spam calls. On iPhones, you can silence unknown callers, meaning that any number not saved in your contacts will go directly to voicemail. Android users can find similar options, allowing them to block numbers individually or silence unknown calls altogether . Utilizing these features proactively can significantly reduce the number of unsolicited calls you receive.

3. Employ Third-Party Call-Blocking Apps

If the built-in features of your phone aren't sufficient, consider downloading a third-party call-blocking app. Various applications, such as RoboKiller and Truecaller, are designed specifically to identify and block spam numbers. These apps compile databases of known spam callers, blocking them before they even reach you. Some of them, like RoboKiller, even use Answer Bots to waste spammers’ time, providing a bit of Spam Phone Number Revenge while protecting your peace .

4. Report Unwanted Calls to Authorities

Reporting spam calls is both a personal and community initiative. By filing complaints with the FTC or the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), you help authorities track down and take action against companies that violate telemarketing rules. The FCC has significant enforcement capabilities and can impose hefty fines on violators . Keep a record of the numbers that spam you, including the date and time of the calls, to provide accurate information in your report.

5. Utilize Carrier-Specific Call-Blocking Services

Many major phone carriers offer call-blocking services customized for their customers. For instance, Verizon's Call Filter and AT&T's ActiveArmor boast advanced filtering technologies to help identify and block unwanted calls before they reach your device. Contact your service provider to learn about the blocking options they offer and consider enrolling in any available services to enhance your call protection . These provisions often utilize a combination of community reporting and machine learning to effectively tackle spam calls.

6. Set Up Spam Labels

Incorporating spam labels into your caller identification can also be effective for identifying spam calls before you answer. Many carriers now offer labeling services that clearly mark calls that may be scams or spam. Identifying these calls ahead of time can help you avoid answering unwanted solicitations, reducing the likelihood of engaging with spammers .

7. Protect Your Personal Information

Lastly, a proactive approach to information privacy can prevent your number from being sold to spammers in the first place. Avoid sharing your phone number unless absolutely necessary and be cautious with online forms that ask for your information. Always read the privacy policy of any website before you submit your details. By limiting the exposure of your number, you can help reduce your chances of becoming a target for spam calls .

Conclusion

Combatting spam phone numbers requires a multi-faceted approach combining preventative measures with reactive strategies. By registering with the National Do Not Call Registry, leveraging built-in and third-party call-blocking tools, reporting spammers, using carrier-specific services, and being mindful of your personal information, you can reclaim control over your phone. As frustrating as spam calls may be, taking these legal and proactive steps will help diminish their presence in your life and restore your peace of mind.