Source: nytimes.com

How to Stop Spam Callers and Texters

Are you being bombarded with annoying spam calls and text messages? You’re not alone! Many people are plagued with unwanted spam calls and text messages on their phones.

Receiving spam calls and texts can be annoying, intrusive, and potentially dangerous. No one should have to deal with these unsolicited messages, so it’s important to know how to protect yourself.

Fortunately, there are ways to help protect yourself against spam. In this blog post, we will look at 6 steps you can take to help stop these disturbing callers and texters from reaching your phone.

So, if you’re ready to take back control of your phone and enjoy a peaceful, spam-free experience, let’s get started!

1. Use a call blocker

Source: androidcentral.com

No one likes to be disturbed by spam callers or texters, and fortunately, there are a few easy steps you can take to help stop them. One of the most effective methods is to use a call blocker, which blocks calls and texts from numbers you don’t recognize. With this tool, you can prevent any suspicious numbers from ever reaching your phone.

Most call blockers are available as an app on your smartphone. Depending on your chosen app, they can offer additional features, such as blocking calls from unknown numbers or allowing only certain numbers to reach you. They also have a whitelist option, allowing you to keep in touch with family and friends without worrying about letting in any potential scammers.

When you set up a call blocker, you should know the types of calls you want to block. For example, block telemarketers or robocalls, then enter any numbers identified as spam in the app’s database. This way, you can ensure those numbers never reach your phone.

By using a call blocker, you can control who has access to your phone number and keep spam callers and texters at bay.

2. Don’t answer calls from unfamiliar numbers

Have you ever received a call from an unknown number and immediately thought it was spam? You’re not alone; Hiya’s State of the Call Report revealed that Americans received an average of 18 spam calls per month.

But it’s possible to stop annoying spam calls and texts by taking a few simple steps.

Spam calls can come from all over the world, so don’t take chances. If you don’t recognize the number, don’t answer it. This way, you can avoid potential scams or spammers trying to get your personal information.

If the caller still doesn’t stop calling, you can try blocking their number. Most modern smartphones have this feature built-in, but if yours doesn’t, you can always download a third-party app to do the job for you.

Remember, never answer a call from an unknown number – it could cost you more than just a few minutes of your time.

3. Don’t respond to texts from unknown numbers

Source: pcmag.com

When you receive a text from a number you don’t recognize, don’t reply. Responding to it — even to say stop or who is this — can signal to the sender that your number is active and could result in more unwanted messages.

Not responding also means you won’t accidentally click any links in the text, as clicking on those links can result in malicious software being installed on your device or your personal information being stolen.

When you receive a spam text, the best thing to do is to delete it immediately and forget about it. Doing so will help keep your device and personal information safe and free from spam.

4. Research unknown numbers online

By researching an unknown number online, you can often find out who’s calling and why. Scammers and telemarketers often use fake caller IDs to mask their identity, but a quick search on Google or Facebook can help determine who they are.

Additionally, you can use PhoneHistory to find out who owns the number that’s been calling or texting you. Reverse phone lookup services like this can provide detailed information about the number, such as name, address, and other contact details associated with the number.

Once you’ve identified the caller, you can decide whether you want to block them. If the caller is a legitimate business, you can request that they stop calling or texting you.

5. Report spam calls to the FTC

Source: bgr.com

One of the best ways to stop spam callers and texters is to report them to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC investigates unwanted call and text complaints and takes action against companies violating laws against robocalls and other types of telemarketing.

By filing a complaint with the FTC, you can help the agency investigate and take action against spammers. Therefore, it’s essential to provide as much information as possible in your complaints: the date and time of the call, the caller’s number, or any other information that could help the FTC in their investigation.

You can file a complaint about unwanted calls or texts online at  ReportFraud.ftc.gov and donotcall.gov.

Reporting spam callers and texters to the FTC is a great way to help protect yourself and others from unwanted communication. So if you are getting annoying calls or texts, don’t just ignore them; take action and report them to the FTC.

6. Change your number

One of the most effective ways to stop spam callers and texters is to change your number. Although this may seem drastic, it’s often the best way to protect yourself from unwanted communication.

The process for changing your number varies depending on your mobile carrier. You can do it online or by calling your carrier’s customer service line. Remember that changing your number may require you to pay an additional fee, so check with your provider before taking action.

Once you’ve changed your number, update it in all your online accounts and contact information. This will ensure that all your friends and family have your new number.

Changing your number is the best way to quickly and effectively stop spam callers and texters. If you’re bombarded with unwanted calls and messages, consider taking this step to protect yourself and your privacy.

On a Final Note

We’ve gone over 6 ways to help you stop spam callers and texters from invading your privacy.

Regardless of your chosen method, remember that it’s important to be proactive about blocking potential spammers. It’s not only about protecting your personal data but also about ensuring you don’t get overwhelmed by the constant bombardment of unwanted messages.

Doing this ensures you’re doing all you can to protect yourself from the nuisance of spam calls and texts.

About Nina Smith