Telemarketers can be a nuisance, especially when they won't stop calling you even after you've asked them to remove you from their list. The problem seems to get worse when you change your phone number and suddenly find yourself getting even more spam calls offering you services that seem like scams.
The truth is, a lot of the calls and texts you get probably are scams, but some of them could be legitimate, like companies trying to sell you on their services or collection agencies trying to collect on a debt. Even so, that doesn't give them the right to contact you. There are rules legitimate businesses must follow if they want to call or text you, and if you're feeling victimized by unwanted calls, here's what you can do.
1. Put your number on the "Do Not Call" registry
In the United States, there is an official registry of phone numbers that telemarketers are not allowed to call. You can add your phone number to this "Do Not Call" list on DoNotCall.gov, or by calling 1-888-382-1222. Adding your number won't block calls, but it will make it illegal for telemarketers to call you.
If you've recently obtained a new phone number, you'll want to add the new number to this list. Each time a phone number is disconnected and reassigned, it's removed from the registry.
2. Get a TCPA lawyer
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) was enacted when the FCC realized they were receiving more than 150,000 monthly complaints about robocalls, spam text messages, and unwanted calls. The TCPA prohibits these calls without written consent from you.
If you can't get these calls to stop, a TCPA lawyer might be able to help. It's not uncommon for attorneys to recover $10,000 or more for clients who are being bombarded by these annoying phone calls and text messages. Get a consultation from a TCPA lawyer as soon as possible to find out if you have a case.
3. Ask the caller or texter to remove you from their list
Most telemarketing companies have a private "do not call" list, but you need to specifically ask them to put your number on this list. You can't just tell them not to call you ever again. Requesting a removal will work in some cases.
Don't hold your breath, though. Most people don't follow through with lawsuits, so spammers and telemarketers who are not running a legitimate business won't have much incentive to remove your number from their list.
4. Don't hang up right away
It sounds counter-intuitive, but don't hang up the phone immediately when you discover a telemarketer on the other end. It will make them mark your lead as "no answer," which means they will call you again and again until you stay on the line.
5. Don't yell at the telemarketer
Many people yell at telemarketers and tell them off when they call, but they're just doing their job trying to get paid to support themselves. They're annoying, but nobody deserves to be treated poorly. Even if you support yelling at a telemarketer, it will only backfire. One former telemarketer revealed that if you make them mad, they'll put your lead back into the pool of numbers just to torture you some more.
6. Don't give reasons for not being interested
Telemarketers are sales people and they will attempt to counter every objection you throw their way. Don't give them any ammo for overcoming your objections. Simply say no, tell them you are not interested, and never tell them why. Try to stay on the line long enough to tell them no at least three times while maintaining a polite manner. Some telemarketers will stop trying once they hear "no" three times.
By staying on the line for a brief moment to give them a firm answer that you aren't interested, you'll have a better chance at being removed from their marketing list.
7. Block unwanted calls
There are plenty of ways to block unwanted calls and texts, and it's unfortunate that it's your responsibility. However, unless you are proactive about the problem, they won't stop calling.
Check out the consumer resources section on the CITA website for blocking options specific to landlines and mobile carriers.
Your approach matters
Telemarketers are annoying, but you can get rid of them with the right approach. Start by asking nicely to be removed from their list and politely telling them you aren't interested. If that doesn't work, escalate it by contacting an attorney.