Image: spm
We have probably all been victims, at least once in our life, of certain mysterious calls: unknown numbers which do not answer when we pick up the device or which hang up after a few seconds. Often we think it’s just a mistake. Because, of course, anyone can accidentally dial the wrong number. But what if it wasn’t? If these calls were well thought out and had a specific purpose. Always be careful, because these “silent calls” can get you in serious trouble. Here’s how to guard against it.
Call center – Source: spm
Why are we getting silent calls?
There is a specific reason silent calls exist. In general, this scheme is used by different call centers for purely commercial purposes to save time. Their technique is to use automatic systems that generate more calls than the number of operators available at that time. Since they cannot handle multiple clients at the same time, the call therefore remains silent. Once the operators are available again, they then focus on previous calls that the system has recorded.
Unfortunately, in recent weeks, many such calls have been reported to the Data Protection Authority. anxiety, panic attacks, anxiety, restlessness, stress and a fear for their own safety. This cocktail of emotions proves that these calls can be dangerous for people’s mental health.
Unknown caller – Source: spm
In France, the law protecting against silent calls is Law No. 2014-344 of March 17, 2014 relating to consumption. This law prohibits silent calls and provides criminal penalties for those who send them. It also protects consumers against other types of deceptive marketing practices, such as aggressive door-to-door sales or misleading offers of telephone or internet services.
Here are some tips to avoid silent calls:
Use a call blocker app: There are many free apps that can help you block unwanted calls, including silent calls.
Do not answer calls from unknown numbers: If you do not recognize the number that appears on your phone, it is better not to answer the call.
Don’t give your phone number to people or businesses you don’t know: it can protect you from unwanted calls, including silent calls.
If you receive silent calls despite your efforts to avoid them, you can report these calls to the DGCCRF or ARCEP. These organizations can investigate these calls and take action to protect consumers from these practices.
There is also an application to know exactly who is calling you and it is called “truecaller”. If you download it, it will help you better filter unwanted calls that you don’t want to answer. Above all, this will allow you to escape certain scammers who try to deceive you by activating various payment services at your expense.
Use a phone call blocker app. There are many free options on Google Play Store, like “Truecaller” or “Mr. Number”, which can help you identify and block unwanted calls.
Activate your device’s built-in spam call blocking feature. On most recent Android devices, you can activate this feature by going to “Settings” then selecting “Security and privacy” and finally “Blocking unwanted calls”.
Block individual phone numbers. If you receive an unwanted call from a particular number, you can block it by adding that number to your block list.
Do not answer calls or messages from unknown numbers. If you don’t recognize the number that appears on your incoming call, it’s best not to answer. If you receive a text message from a number you don’t know, ignore it.
Watch out for phishing calls or phone scams. Some unscrupulous people may try to trick you into calling you and pretending to be a legitimate company or government official. Be careful and never give your personal or financial information to people you don’t know.
Use the “Call blocking” app built into your device. This application allows you to block individual phone numbers or unwanted call types, such as anonymous calls or voicemail calls. To activate it, go to “Settings” then select “Phone”, then “Call blocking”.
Install a phone call blocker app. There are many free options on the App Store, such as “Truecaller” or “Hiya”, which can help you identify and block unwanted calls.
Block individual phone numbers. If you receive an unwanted call from a particular number, you can block it by adding that number to your block list.
Do not answer calls or messages from unknown numbers. If you don’t recognize the number that appears on your incoming call, it’s best not to answer. If you receive a text message from a number you don’t know, ignore it.
Watch out for phishing calls or phone scams. Some unscrupulous people may try to trick you into calling you and pretending to be a reputable company. Be careful and never give your personal or financial information to people you don’t know.
Read also The phone rings but no one answers? Here’s how to fight “silent calls” and how to protect yourself
Via SPM
