Do not call
October 22, 2015 7:44 AM Subscribe
It seems telemarketers have jumped on what must be the expiration of the last time I signed up for a "Do not call" registry. When I first signed up, it was for a landline, and it was very straightforward. The next time was for mobile phones, and still it was fairly easy and effective. Now when I google this, there are several options. Which should I use?
The registry (NY) seemed to work quite well in the past. I would like to sign up again, but googling takes me in so many directions that I'm not sure which one I should be using. Are all registries created equal? Are they all equally effective? Are some of them scams intended just to get my number and bother me more?
These are not bill collectors or companies with which I've ever done any kind of business. They are cold calls offering to lower interest rates, etc. I've answered now and then in hopes of reaching a human so I can tell them to stop calling me, but of course I get disconnected and end up blocking the number. I'd rather not get the calls in the first place.
Maybe worth noting: I've looked at previous questions about this, but since I didn't have trouble finding the "right" registry years ago, I'm seeking the best option for 2015. Thanks!
The registry (NY) seemed to work quite well in the past. I would like to sign up again, but googling takes me in so many directions that I'm not sure which one I should be using. Are all registries created equal? Are they all equally effective? Are some of them scams intended just to get my number and bother me more?
These are not bill collectors or companies with which I've ever done any kind of business. They are cold calls offering to lower interest rates, etc. I've answered now and then in hopes of reaching a human so I can tell them to stop calling me, but of course I get disconnected and end up blocking the number. I'd rather not get the calls in the first place.
Maybe worth noting: I've looked at previous questions about this, but since I didn't have trouble finding the "right" registry years ago, I'm seeking the best option for 2015. Thanks!
Best answer: You don't have to sign up again : it never expires.
The trouble is that telemarketer scum just don't give a fuck about it and call you anyway.
posted by w0mbat at 8:22 AM on October 22, 2015 [5 favorites]
The trouble is that telemarketer scum just don't give a fuck about it and call you anyway.
posted by w0mbat at 8:22 AM on October 22, 2015 [5 favorites]
Best answer: Seconding w0mbat; if they even show a number, it very likely won't be valid, or will be from another country (like the 905 area code that many use, which is in Ontario, Canada) so is beyond the FCC's reach. This, like spam, is down to a flaw in the system design, and there's nothing you can do to stop it entirely. Community filtering services help a bit, but it's still going to happen.
posted by scruss at 10:53 AM on October 22, 2015
posted by scruss at 10:53 AM on October 22, 2015
Best answer: I've answered now and then in hopes of reaching a human so I can tell them to stop calling me
If you're staying on the line with robocalls, this reaction is going to increase the number of calls you receive. There are cut-rate telemarketers that use robocalls to collect lists of people "willing to engage." Even if you were actually staying on the phone trying to find someone to tell to get stuffed, you will trip this flag.
If you do speak to a person, give no information, not even why you're not interested or why this is a bad time to call. Just say clearly and politely without delay, "I do not wish to receive calls on this number. Please remove me from your list." They are legally compelled to comply.
For the robocalls... Ignore them. Or block them with call block. And/or contact the FTC or the BBB. But do not stay on the line.
TL;DR: if there's a recording on the other end, HANG UP RIGHT AWAY; if there's a person, do not engage, just go directly into telling them not to call.
posted by DirtyOldTown at 4:50 PM on October 22, 2015
If you're staying on the line with robocalls, this reaction is going to increase the number of calls you receive. There are cut-rate telemarketers that use robocalls to collect lists of people "willing to engage." Even if you were actually staying on the phone trying to find someone to tell to get stuffed, you will trip this flag.
If you do speak to a person, give no information, not even why you're not interested or why this is a bad time to call. Just say clearly and politely without delay, "I do not wish to receive calls on this number. Please remove me from your list." They are legally compelled to comply.
For the robocalls... Ignore them. Or block them with call block. And/or contact the FTC or the BBB. But do not stay on the line.
TL;DR: if there's a recording on the other end, HANG UP RIGHT AWAY; if there's a person, do not engage, just go directly into telling them not to call.
posted by DirtyOldTown at 4:50 PM on October 22, 2015
Response by poster: All these answers were helpful, and I verified that I am still registered. Thanks, all!
posted by whoiam at 6:36 AM on October 23, 2015
posted by whoiam at 6:36 AM on October 23, 2015
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That page also lists how to file a complaint. Only use websites from the Federal or State government or links on those websites.
posted by soelo at 7:59 AM on October 22, 2015