Robocalls And What To Do About Them
Sorting The "Good" From The "Bad"
False vehicle equipment recall information, phony data breach notifications, remote computer repair scams — we’ve all experienced the annoying and time-wasting scam calls generated by “Robocallers”. Robocalling is a name given to automated calling systems, and while many times they are used for illegitimate or illegal purposes, there are many times when automated calls are important and helpful. Here are some examples of legitimate robocalls:
"Wanted" Robocalls
• Credit card alerts
• Doctor/dentist office reminders
• Overdue bill reminders
• Prescription drug availability
• Emergency alerts
• School updates
• Utility outages
Other Permissible Calls
• Sales calls
• Campaign/political calls
• Charitable calls
• Debt collection calls
• Surveys
• Government notices
TIP:
A legitimate caller will not request information from you such as your social security number, bank account number or other personal information. If you are asked for any such information, it is advised that you end the call immediately.
How to report a suspected fraudulent call
If you receive a call and you suspect caller ID information has been falsified, or you think the rules for protecting the privacy of your telephone number have been violated, you can file a complaint with the FCC.
• File a complaint online at https://consumercomplaints.fcc.gov
• By phone: 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322); TTY: 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322);
ASL: 1-844-432-2275