7 Effective Methods for Blocking Phone Numbers on a Residential Telephone

Landline phones may no longer be in demand among regular consumers, but they still hold a vital role for businesses, including small-scale enterprises. The challenge arises when your company's landline becomes inundated with unwanted calls, causing disruption. So, how can you effectively tackle this issue and prevent your landline from being tied up by an influx of nuisance calls?

The Solution: There are several methods to block specific phone numbers on your landline. One option is to press *60 after receiving a call, which will enable you to block that particular number. Another solution is to register your number on the national "Do Not Call" list or request to remove your number from it. Should these methods prove ineffective, you can employ a physical call blocking device.

Receiving a continuous barrage of spam calls can be extremely bothersome. Beyond the nuisance factor, these unwanted calls can also impede the usage of your phone. Vital calls may inadvertently be sent to voicemail, missing important conversations. The question then arises, how can you effectively block these bothersome calls? Here are seven innovative approaches to consider:

1. Utilize the Power of *60

*60 serves as a universal code that allows you to block unwanted phone numbers on your landline. To implement this feature, simply dial *60 and follow the provided instructions to block the specific number. It is recommended to write down the number you wish to block before initiating this process. In case you need to unblock a number, dialing *80 will reverse the process and restore connectivity.

Additionally, certain phone service providers offer robocall blocking functions, which preemptively halt spam calls. These functions require callers to press a designated button to proceed with the call. Genuine callers can effortlessly bypass this step, while automated bots are disconnected, effectively eliminating unwanted spam calls.

2. Register with the National Do Not Call Registry

To combat the issue of unwanted calls, the National Do Not Call Registry, also known as the "Do Not Call List," was established by Congress in 2003. Managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), this registry aims to prevent the intrusion of unsolicited phone calls. Telemarketers are strictly prohibited from dialing any numbers listed in this registry.

Whether you possess a cell phone or landline, you can freely add your number to the registry. The process is quick, straightforward, and entirely cost-free, requiring just a few minutes to complete the necessary form. It is important to note that telemarketers are obligated to update their internal do not call lists only once a month. Consequently, if your number has been registered for less than 30 days, there is limited recourse against unwanted calls. However, after the 31-day mark, you can file a complaint with the FTC in the event that a telemarketer continues to call you.

Do bear in mind that certain organizations are exempt from adhering to the Do Not Call Registry requirements. Political bodies, charitable institutions, and polling companies, mandated by public interest, maintain the right to randomly call numbers. The registry primarily targets marketing calls specifically.

Furthermore, it is important to acknowledge that legitimate calls may still reach your number. For instance, if you make a purchase from a company, they retain the right to contact you for the subsequent 18 months. Similarly, contracts and terms of service agreements may grant companies permission to call you – it is crucial to meticulously review the fine print. Unwittingly, you might be granting consent for spam calls to be made to your number.

Telemarketing companies are also under obligation to maintain their own internal do not call lists. If you request them not to contact you, they are required to honor that request. To ensure a seamless experience, ensure you document the date you made the request. This information will be invaluable should they persist in contacting you, enabling you to file a complaint with the FTC.

3. Alter Your Listing Method

Most telemarketers source phone numbers from public databases, some of which you have no control over or knowledge of. For instance, it is impossible to ascertain which entities Facebook and other social media platforms have shared your information with. However, it's still possible to minimize your exposure.

Apart from eliminating your publicly listed phone number, you can request your phone service provider to modify the listing. In some cases, phone numbers can be non-listed, meaning they won't be displayed in any public directories. Nevertheless, these non-listed numbers can still be accessed via directory assistance. Alternatively, non-published numbers are entirely invisible to external sources. They are absent from public directories and remain untraceable through directory assistance services.

Obtaining a non-listed or non-published number is completely free of charge. The added benefit is that your telephone provider is legally prohibited from disclosing non-listed and non-published numbers to marketing companies.

4. Incorporate a Call Interceptor

If you crave a more reliable solution, you might consider utilizing a hardware device for blocking calls. The call blocking device called CPR V5000 is an exceptional option. Its compact design resembles that of an old-fashioned solar calculator. You simply connect it to the wall and then connect your phone to the V5000.

This device comes with 5,000 pre-programmed numbers of known spam callers. What's advantageous about these numbers is that they include those that are exempt from Do Not Call requirements. Consequently, political and charitable solicitations will also be screened and blocked. Additionally, you have the option to block private numbers, unidentified callers, and international calls. In the event that you still receive spam calls, you can add up to 1,500 more numbers to be blocked.

CPR has been rewarded with multiple accolades for this product, and they back it up with a three-year warranty. Moreover, you benefit from lifetime technical assistance. However, it's important to note that the device will only function if you have caller ID activated via your landline provider.

5. Utilize Nomorobo (VoIP lines exclusively)

Nomorobo is a service designed for digital landline phones (VoIP phones) and smartphones. Please be advised that it will not function if you are still using an conventional analog phone line. What's fascinating about Nomorobo is that it operates as a service rather than as physical equipment. As new spam numbers arise, Nomorobo updates its database accordingly. This ensures that you will continue to receive the same level of protection in the future as you do at the time of signing up.

Moreover, Nomorobo provides call screening for suspected spoofed calls and other dubious numbers. This ensures nearly 100% effectiveness in preventing unwanted calls. If you possess a smartphone, it will even block spam and scam text messages. In the event that you remain unconvinced, there is a 14-day free trial available. This allows you to assess its performance on your VoIP phone and only make a payment if you are satisfied.

6. Exercise Caution When Answering Calls

Despite the effectiveness of your anti-spam measures, the occasional spam or scam call may inevitably make it past your defenses. In such cases, it would be wise to let calls from unfamiliar numbers go to voicemail. This approach is particularly advisable if you were not anticipating any calls.

Even calls from local numbers can be deceptive. Nowadays, most scammers and telemarketers utilize caller ID spoofing to generate local numbers. They do this in hopes that you will be more inclined to pick up if the caller appears to be from your area code. Thus, you could unknowingly answer a "local" call and find yourself speaking with a scammer from Nigeria.

Fortunately, this is unlikely to harm your business. Legitimate callers will simply leave a voicemail. As long as you regularly check your voicemail, you will be able to return calls from legitimate sources.

7. Exercise Caution When Sharing Your Number

There is a saying that goes "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." In other words, the best way to avoid spam calls is to refrain from sharing your number in the first place!

To begin with, only provide your phone number to individuals you trust. Sharing your number with strangers or dubious websites is a guaranteed method for attracting spam calls. Furthermore, these websites have the ability to collect numbers and sell them to telemarketers and other untrustworthy entities. Therefore, by sharing your number just once, it could end up being sold numerous times to different parties.

Concealing Personal Phone Numbers

When it comes to your personal phone number, it is not advisable to disclose it online. However, if you find yourself in a situation where you absolutely must share it, there are ways to hide its true form. For instance, let's say your number is "555-765-4321." Instead of explicitly writing it as such, you could employ an obscured variation like "Five Five S – Seven $ix S – 4 three two l". Although a human can decipher this code, it will undoubtedly bewilder any automated system. Of course, this method may not be feasible for a business number where accessibility is key to attracting and retaining customers.

An Unconventional Approach

In terms of safeguarding your landline phone, blocking unwanted numbers can be a relatively straightforward process once you grasp the techniques involved. Specifically, to block specific numbers, you can effortlessly dial "*60" and adhere to the accompanying instructions. Alternatively, for broader protection against bothersome spam calls, you can opt for enrollment in the National Do Not Call Registry. Additionally, taking the precautionary measure of keeping your number unlisted and refraining from sharing it online is a prudent move.

Enhanced Safeguards

For a more robust level of security, consider incorporating a hardware call blocker or subscribing to a spam-blocking service. Regardless of your circumstances, implementing call screening practices can significantly diminish the onslaught of unwelcome phone calls you experience.

In Closing

As you navigate the intricate world of phone number protection, it is crucial to exercise caution. Employ the strategies outlined above to shield yourself from potential risks and intrusions. Remember, safeguarding your personal information is paramount.