How to Handle a Spam Phone Call

For some of us, there is no worse sound than the alarming noise a ringing phone makes. The younger generations have no use for the actual “call” part of a smart phone (talking to people with your actual voice? Is this still a thing!?). But no matter how you feel about a ringing phone, one thing is undoubtedly true: no one likes a spam phone call.  

That’s why we thought we would share with you some ways to minimize these unwanted calls. 

Don’t answer your phone 

We are mostly joking. But truly, one of the easiest ways to avoid telemarketing calls is with what we like to call “phone abstinence.” Simply turn off your ringer and pretend that function on your phone doesn’t exist. Problem solved. Or solved-ish. 

Get on the National Do Not Call List 

If you aren’t on a business line, this should keep telemarketers (at least the ones working within the law) at bay. Telemarketers in Canada are legally obligated to register with, and pay, to use the do not call list. You can register your residential, wireless, fax or VoIP line here: https://lnnte-dncl.gc.ca/en

Your phone may have solutions to spam calls 

Each provider (Bell, Telus, Rogers, Virgin, etc.) has options to block anonymous calls, using “intelligent filtering of calls”, or blocks calls from suspected, or known, spam numbers. If you talk to the provider who curses you with the ability to call people with your actual voice, they can talk to you about your options.

Your actual phone might also have options. You can usually “block this caller” on most phones (in the phone app or caller history). You can also block all unknown callers on Android by going through the phone app’s settings menu. 

Use caution

Most importantly, if you do happen to answer one of these calls, never give out any personal information such as your banking or credit card information. If you have concerns regarding your banking, for example, contact the financial institution directly. In most instances, large corporations will not ask for this kind of information via telephone, so keep your personal details private and secure. Never send money, accept money, and always use caution when speaking with someone you don’t know.

Your best form of action is to ignore the phone call. If someone you know is trying to get a hold of you, they will call back, leave a message, or you will recognize the phone number.

Avoiding nuisance calls is doable. A few changes in your settings and a quick registry on the Do Not Call list should do it. Or you can join us, and millions of other disillusioned phone-balkers, and shut off your ringer.