SPAM messages and calls have become an unfortunate reality of our daily lives, and it’s safe to say that we’ve all received our fair share of them. These unsolicited messages and calls can be incredibly annoying, time-consuming, and sometimes even dangerous.
What are the SPAM Messages/Calls
SPAM messages are unsolicited texts or emails sent to a large number of people, usually for commercial purposes. On the other hand, SPAM calls are unsolicited phone calls that often use automated systems to make calls. These calls can be made for various purposes, such as telemarketing, scams, or even just prank calls.
Risks of SPAM Messages and Calls
Many of these messages and calls are designed to trick people into giving out personal information or money. For example, a common SPAM message might claim that you’ve won a prize and ask you to provide personal information to claim it. These messages can be incredibly convincing and can easily trick people, especially those who are vulnerable or less familiar with technology.
In addition to the above, SPAM messages and calls can also have a significant impact on our mental health. Receiving constant SPAM messages and calls can be incredibly stressful, especially if they’re designed to scare or intimidate us. Furthermore, the feeling of being constantly targeted can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression.
What Can We Do To Protect Ourselves From SPAM Messages And Calls?
If you’re tired of receiving unsolicited calls and messages from telemarketers, scammers, and other unwanted sources, then it’s time to take action and remove your phone number from spam lists. Here are some steps you can take to reduce or even eliminate spam calls and messages:
1. Register with the National Do Not Call Registry
The National Do Not Call Registry is a free service offered by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that allows you to add your phone number to a list that telemarketers are required by law to avoid. By registering your number, you can reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive from legitimate telemarketers. To register, visit donotcall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222 from the phone number you wish to add to the list.
2. Use spam-blocking apps
There are a variety of spam-blocking apps available for both iOS and Android devices. These apps can identify and block calls and messages from known spammers and scammers. Some popular options include Truecaller, Hiya, and RoboKiller. Many of these apps are available for free, but some may offer additional features for a fee.
3. Be cautious when sharing your phone number
When you provide your phone number online or in person, make sure you are only sharing it with trusted sources. If you’re unsure if a website or business is legitimate, do some research to ensure that they are reputable before sharing your personal information.
4. Report spam calls and messages
If you receive a spam call or message, report it to the FTC. This helps to identify patterns and trends in spam activity, which can be used to investigate and prosecute spammers. You can report spam calls and messages online at ftc.gov/complaint or by calling 1-888-382-1222.
5. Block individual numbers
If you receive spam calls or messages from a specific phone number, you can block that number on your phone. This will prevent future calls and messages from that number from coming through to your phone. The process for blocking a number varies depending on your device, but instructions can typically be found in your phone’s settings.
In conclusion, spam messages and calls can have a significant impact on our lives. While it may not be possible to completely eliminate them, these are steps we can take to reduce their impact. We can use call-blocking software to filter out unwanted calls, and we can be vigilant about protecting our personal information. By taking these steps, we can minimize the negative effects of spam messages and calls and enjoy the benefits of technology without the constant intrusion.
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