Sign Up for Spam Calls: What It Means & How to Avoid Them
What Does “Sign Up for Spam Calls” Mean?
If you’ve ever received endless calls from unknown numbers, telemarketers, or scammers, you might have unknowingly signed up for spam calls. This happens when your phone number gets added to marketing lists, sold to third-party advertisers, or leaked through online forms.
How Do People End Up on Spam Call Lists?
Many users don’t realize they’re signing up for spam calls. Here’s how it happens:
1. Filling Out Online Forms
When you enter your phone number on sweepstakes, free giveaways, or subscription forms, companies may share or sell that data.
2. Downloading Apps Without Checking Permissions
Some apps request access to contacts and personal data. If they share or sell your information, you might get spam calls.
3. Registering for Free Trials
Many free trials require a phone number. If you don’t check the privacy policy, your number could end up on a marketing list.
4. Posting Your Number Publicly
If you list your phone number on social media, classified ads, or online profiles, spammers can easily grab it.
5. Participating in Surveys
Surveys often ask for contact details. Companies may use them for marketing or sell them to third parties.
How to Know If You’ve Signed Up for Spam Calls
If you’re getting unwanted calls frequently, it’s a sign your number is on a spam list. Other indicators include:
- Receiving calls from unknown or international numbers.
- Hearing silence or robocall messages.
- Getting offers for products or services you never requested.
How to Stop Spam Calls
1. Register on the National Do Not Call List
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) offers a free service to block telemarketing calls. Visit donotcall.gov to register.
2. Use Call Blocking Apps
Apps like Hiya, Truecaller, and RoboKiller help identify and block spam calls.
3. Enable Built-In Call Filtering on Your Phone
- For iPhone Users: Go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers.
- For Android Users: Use Google’s call screening feature in the Phone app.
4. Avoid Answering Unknown Calls
If you don’t recognize a number, let it go to voicemail. Scammers are less likely to target active numbers that don’t respond.
5. Report Spam Calls
Report unwanted calls to the FTC or your phone carrier. Many carriers offer spam reporting features.
How to Prevent Signing Up for Spam Calls in the Future
1. Be Cautious with Online Forms
Only share your number with trusted sources. Read privacy policies before submitting information.
2. Use a Secondary Phone Number
Consider getting a Google Voice or burner number for sign-ups and subscriptions.
3. Opt Out of Data Brokers
Companies like Whitepages and Spokeo collect and sell phone numbers. You can request to have your data removed.
4. Check App Permissions
Before installing an app, review what data it requests. Avoid apps that ask for unnecessary access to contacts or personal info.
5. Don’t Click on Suspicious Links
Scammers often use text messages to lure users into providing their phone numbers. Be wary of links from unknown senders.
FAQs About Spam Calls
What Are the Most Common Spam Calls?
- Robocalls pretending to be government agencies (IRS, Social Security, etc.).
- Fake tech support claiming your computer is infected.
- Scammers offering fake loan approvals or prizes.
Can You Sue Telemarketers for Spam Calls?
Yes! Under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), you can sue companies that violate do-not-call regulations. You may be eligible for up to $500 per call.
Do Phone Carriers Help Block Spam Calls?
Yes. Major carriers offer free or paid spam protection:
- AT&T: Call Protect
- Verizon: Call Filter
- T-Mobile: Scam Shield
What If a Spam Call Leaves a Voicemail?
Don’t call back. Some scams trick you into high-cost international calls.
Final Thoughts
Spam calls are annoying, but you can take steps to minimize them. If you’ve accidentally signed up for spam calls, follow the tips above to block and prevent them. Stay vigilant, and don’t share your number carelessly!
