Even if you haven't been scammed, these calls are nonetheless annoying. So here are a handful of ways to curb the incoming phone garbage:
- Use a call rejection service. Dial *77 and wait to hear three beeps before hanging up. Now any call that hides its number will be rejected. Be aware that some carriers do charge for the service.
- Check your carrier for services that help block calls. They might have a small monthly fee, but it could be worth it.
- Sign up for the National Do Not Call Registry at www.donotcall.gov. When you add your name to the list, you are taken off the for-profit call list and telemarketers supposedly can't call you. Of course, scammers don't follow the law, but this should still cut down somewhat on the number of unwanted calls.
- Seek revenge. Peaceful revenge, of course. A new app called Robo Revenge, aka Do Not Pay, automatically registers your phone number on a Do Not Call list and gives scammers a fake credit card number. It also sends a dispute letter on your behalf demanding compensation. The company's website also advertises help fighting parking tickets, canceling free trials, copyright protection and more.
