OT: Cell phone telemarketers

[jim cummings]

Im gonna flip shit. I get literally 4-5 calls per day from numbers all over the country and including local numbers.

They’re either from a guy claiming I can make $10,000 per month or from some chick offering me reduced health insurance rates at a price i can afford.

They each have the option of pressing a number and connecting to a live person or a number to be placed on the do not call list. I’ve hit the do not call option dozens of times. Just a few minutes ago, I connected to a live person and the second I said I didn’t want what they were selling they disconnected the call.

This has been going on for a couple years but has really ramped up over the last 4 months. I run a businesss and each call to me is a potential sale so it’s getting beyond irritating that I’m accomodating these robo calls. The one I answered was a local number. The out of area numbers I ignore.

Anyone else dealing with this crap? It used to be limited to the landlines and I thought there were laws put in place about the do not call registry. It’s not working.

 

[jjw165]

Im gonna flip shit. I get literally 4-5 calls per day from numbers all over the country and including local numbers.

They’re either from a guy claiming I can make $10,000 per month or from some chick offering me reduced health insurance rates at a price i can afford.

They each have the option of pressing a number and connecting to a live person or a number to be placed on the do not call list. I’ve hit the do not call option dozens of times. Just a few minutes ago, I connected to a live person and the second I said I didn’t want what they were selling they disconnected the call.

This has been going on for a couple years but has really ramped up over the last 4 months. I run a businesss and each call to me is a potential sale so it’s getting beyond irritating that I’m accomodating these robo calls. The one I answered was a local number. The out of area numbers I ignore.

Anyone else dealing with this crap? It used to be limited to the landlines and I thought there were laws put in place about the do not call registry. It’s not working.

I experience this solicitation almost daily. Now these spammers are also sending me text messages.

 

[Elwood Blues]

Widespread problem. In SC, a lot of people are getting Mandarin speaking robo-calls...not exactly effective. They're also cloning local #'s.

I recently hit #1 to speak to a live person - said take me off your list - and he replied - "no." I said "what do you mean no, it's a violation of federal law." He said - "F you, A$$hole" in a thick Indian accent. I asked if he was having a really bad day, and he hung up on me.

 

[LionDeNittany]

Im gonna flip shit. I get literally 4-5 calls per day from numbers all over the country and including local numbers.

They’re either from a guy claiming I can make $10,000 per month or from some chick offering me reduced health insurance rates at a price i can afford.

They each have the option of pressing a number and connecting to a live person or a number to be placed on the do not call list. I’ve hit the do not call option dozens of times. Just a few minutes ago, I connected to a live person and the second I said I didn’t want what they were selling they disconnected the call.

This has been going on for a couple years but has really ramped up over the last 4 months. I run a businesss and each call to me is a potential sale so it’s getting beyond irritating that I’m accomodating these robo calls. The one I answered was a local number. The out of area numbers I ignore.

Anyone else dealing with this crap? It used to be limited to the landlines and I thought there were laws put in place about the do not call registry. It’s not working.

Whatever you do don't click "opt out" because that just tells them there's a person at the other end. The do not call list is something they sell most likely. These aren't even US companies.

T-Mobile has a free service that tells me if it's a scam caller. Says "Scam Likely".

LdN

 

[Tom McAndrew]

Anyone else dealing with this crap? It used to be limited to the landlines and I thought there were laws put in place about the do not call registry. It’s not working.

Same experience, and it's very frustrating.

For years, I treated my cell # as though it were a state secret. I only gave it out to select people that really needed to be able to contact me at any time. Over the years, I've changed my approach, and have given it out to far too many people and companies.

By and large, I don't answer calls from long distance numbers, unless I have an expectation of a call from outside my area. The f*ing local robo calls are what drive me crazy.

I haven't put any effort into looking at ways to minimize the issue, but I would love to read any solutions that folks have.

 

[jim cummings]

Widespread problem. In SC, a lot of people are getting Mandarin speaking robo-calls...not exactly effective. They're also cloning local #'s.

I recently hit #1 to speak to a live person - said take me off your list - and he replied - "no." I said "what do you mean no, it's a violation of federal law." He said - "F you, A$$hole" in a thick Indian accent. I asked if he was having a really bad day, and he hung up on me.

To be fair the kid that answered the phone was definitely not a foreigner.

 

[The Spin Meister]

Try this; Connect to a live person. Immediately state that "state law in Pa requires me to inform you that all calls to this number are recorded. If you continue the call you are granting permission to be recorded." No matter what they say, if they stay connected, ask them their name, what the name of the company is for which they are calling, and where they are located. I then tell them "I am on the Do Not Call list and your solicitations are illegal. If you or your company calls here one more time, I will forward the recording of your calls to the State's Attorney General office, the state public utility commission, and the FCC."

They may call once or twice again as it takes time to get you off their list but this has cut down on the calls I get. Especially the annoying Michelle from Card Services who used to call several times a day.

 

[katchthis]

IIRC, over 60% of cell phone callers are now spammers or solicitation. Annoying.

 

[Lion84]

I get the mandarin ones as well - WTF. Do they not know they are calling the US. I love the “it’s the IRS and there is a warrant out for you arrest and if you don’t call us back we will call the cops on you - mmm OK. I have even gotten call to my number from my number - crazy the spoofing they can do.

 

[Thus Spoke Mainer]

Geez, none of you people are interested in extending your cars warrenty?

 

[jim cummings]

I get the mandarin ones as well - WTF. Do they not know they are calling the US. I love the “it’s the IRS and there is a warrant out for you arrest and if you don’t call us back we will call the cops on you - mmm OK. I have even gotten call to my number from my number - crazy the spoofing they can do.

See, the mandarin one would entertain me and the IRS one would as well because I’d take the call and go pretty far with it. But I can’t get a variety.

It’s the guy from New York promising me $10,000 a month or some girl trying to sell insurance. The second I tried to ask the questions i was cut off.

 

[katchthis]

See, the mandarin one would entertain me and the IRS one would as well because I’d take the call and go pretty far with it. But I can’t get a variety.

It’s the guy from New York promising me $10,000 a month or some girl trying to sell insurance. The second I tried to ask the questions i was cut off.

WSJ article on this recently. Some recipients love to keep the spammers on the phone as long as they can for fun. Wait I have something in the oven, wait someone at the door.,.......
Seinfeld nailed it , when he said give me your home number and I will call you back later.

 

[loosey goosey]

It really drives me nuts when it rings on my JBL boom box when I'm jammin tunes.

 

[palmettolion]

Same for me. I did not have this problem until about 2 months ago, now I get calls and text messages. Apparently a woman went on one of those internet car insurance quote sites and instead of putting her number in she put a fake phone number in. My phone number. Now my number keeps getting sold down the line from car insurance to Amazon delivery driver opportunities, at least 10 calls a day.

F**k you Portia Seabrook, I hope you catch syphilis.

 

[BBrown]

Im gonna flip shit. I get literally 4-5 calls per day from numbers all over the country and including local numbers.

They’re either from a guy claiming I can make $10,000 per month or from some chick offering me reduced health insurance rates at a price i can afford.

They each have the option of pressing a number and connecting to a live person or a number to be placed on the do not call list. I’ve hit the do not call option dozens of times. Just a few minutes ago, I connected to a live person and the second I said I didn’t want what they were selling they disconnected the call.

This has been going on for a couple years but has really ramped up over the last 4 months. I run a businesss and each call to me is a potential sale so it’s getting beyond irritating that I’m accomodating these robo calls. The one I answered was a local number. The out of area numbers I ignore.

Anyone else dealing with this crap? It used to be limited to the landlines and I thought there were laws put in place about the do not call registry. It’s not working.

Experiencing the same thing.
Thanks for the reminder.
Now off to that "Pet Peeves" thread.

 

[BBrown]

Same experience, and it's very frustrating.

For years, I treated my cell # as though it were a state secret. I only gave it out to select people that really needed to be able to contact me at any time. Over the years, I've changed my approach, and have given it out to far too many people and companies.

By and large, I don't answer calls from long distance numbers, unless I have an expectation of a call from outside my area. The f*ing local robo calls are what drive me crazy.

I haven't put any effort into looking at ways to minimize the issue, but I would love to read any solutions that folks have.

Honestly I don't think it matters who you give it out to anymore.
We got my elderly mom a smart phone this past Christmas, only me and my sisters and VERIZON know her number.
She's getting about 2 spam calls a day. I'm blaming Verizon.

 

[BBrown]

Same for me. I did not have this problem until about 2 months ago, now I get calls and text messages. Apparently a woman went on one of those internet car insurance quote sites and instead of putting her number in she put a fake phone number in. My phone number. Now my number keeps getting sold down the line from car insurance to Amazon delivery driver opportunities, at least 10 calls a day.

F**k you Portia Seabrook, I hope you catch syphilis.

LOL.

 

[PearlSUJam]

Im gonna flip shit. I get literally 4-5 calls per day from numbers all over the country and including local numbers.

They’re either from a guy claiming I can make $10,000 per month or from some chick offering me reduced health insurance rates at a price i can afford.

They each have the option of pressing a number and connecting to a live person or a number to be placed on the do not call list. I’ve hit the do not call option dozens of times. Just a few minutes ago, I connected to a live person and the second I said I didn’t want what they were selling they disconnected the call.

This has been going on for a couple years but has really ramped up over the last 4 months. I run a businesss and each call to me is a potential sale so it’s getting beyond irritating that I’m accomodating these robo calls. The one I answered was a local number. The out of area numbers I ignore.

Anyone else dealing with this crap? It used to be limited to the landlines and I thought there were laws put in place about the do not call registry. It’s not working.

The more you actually answer the more they call. Stop answering from unknown callers and it will eventually stop, or at least die down a lot.

 

[LurkerLazarus]

Why on earth do you guys answer those calls? If they are truly important, they'll go to voice mail and you'll return the call. I would never answer those calls in a million years.

 

[Nitwit]

Just don’t answer. If it’s important whoever is calling will leave a voicemail.

Edit- just saw post above and I agree.

 

[WDLion]

Im gonna flip shit. I get literally 4-5 calls per day from numbers all over the country and including local numbers.

They’re either from a guy claiming I can make $10,000 per month or from some chick offering me reduced health insurance rates at a price i can afford.

They each have the option of pressing a number and connecting to a live person or a number to be placed on the do not call list. I’ve hit the do not call option dozens of times. Just a few minutes ago, I connected to a live person and the second I said I didn’t want what they were selling they disconnected the call.

This has been going on for a couple years but has really ramped up over the last 4 months. I run a businesss and each call to me is a potential sale so it’s getting beyond irritating that I’m accomodating these robo calls. The one I answered was a local number. The out of area numbers I ignore.

Anyone else dealing with this crap? It used to be limited to the landlines and I thought there were laws put in place about the do not call registry. It’s not working.

I get them from affordable health and some outfit selling extend warranty on vehicles. l probably blocked dozens of numbers from the two.

 

[Art]

Student loan repayment options. Makes no sense since I never had any loans, so go figure.

 

[PennState_one]

Im gonna flip shit. I get literally 4-5 calls per day from numbers all over the country and including local numbers.

They’re either from a guy claiming I can make $10,000 per month or from some chick offering me reduced health insurance rates at a price i can afford.

They each have the option of pressing a number and connecting to a live person or a number to be placed on the do not call list. I’ve hit the do not call option dozens of times. Just a few minutes ago, I connected to a live person and the second I said I didn’t want what they were selling they disconnected the call.

This has been going on for a couple years but has really ramped up over the last 4 months. I run a businesss and each call to me is a potential sale so it’s getting beyond irritating that I’m accomodating these robo calls. The one I answered was a local number. The out of area numbers I ignore.

Anyone else dealing with this crap? It used to be limited to the landlines and I thought there were laws put in place about the do not call registry. It’s not working.

Lol only 4 or 5? My wife gets blasted with over a dozen daily. I heard that downloading certain apps will put your information out there. I just put both of our numbers on the do not call list. They say it takes about 30 days to kick in. We shall see, but yeah, very annoying...

 

[ThePennsyOracle]

Lol only 4 or 5? My wife gets blasted with over a dozen daily. I heard that downloading certain apps will put your information out there. I just put both of our numbers on the do not call list. They say it takes about 30 days to kick in. We shall see, but yeah, very annoying...

The DNC list is totally worthless.

 

[NC2017]

Any presidential candidate who promises to rid the nation of this pain in the ass has my vote.

 

[PAgeologist]

I actually got one from my mother's cell phone number. I know they clone local numbers, but what are the chances they would clone someone's number I have.

Like stated above, I don't answer numbers I don't have a name for.

When I was growing up, we used to keep a small boat airhorn by the phone for telemarketers.

 

[PennState_one]

The DNC list is totally worthless.

Yep, but worth a try regardless...I'm sure there are legal avenues available for us, just don't know what that is. If anyone knows anything, share the joy.

 

[tboyer]

I pretty much don't answer the phone unless it's from someone in my contacts. Anything else, they can leave a message. Solicitation calls almost never do.

You can get Iphone and Android apps that will filter out a lot of solicitation calls. You should also be diligent about blocking any number that solicits you.

If you're interested in revenge, check out the Jolly Roger Telephone Company. For a very small monthly fee, you can forward solicitation calls to them. They take the call and then use very realistic recordings of humans who keep the solicitors on the line and frustrate them. It is very funny and satisfying.

https://jollyrogertelephone.com/

 

[The Spin Meister]

I actually got one from my mother's cell phone number. I know they clone local numbers, but what are the chances they would clone someone's number I have.

Like stated above, I don't answer numbers I don't have a name for.

When I was growing up, we used to keep a small boat airhorn by the phone for telemarketers.

---
I got one from the local hospital!

 

[jim cummings]

The more you actually answer the more they call. Stop answering from unknown callers and it will eventually stop, or at least die down a lot.

95% of the calls that come to my phone are not in my phone book. I run a business. People call me for service and if I don’t answer they call someone else. Most leave a message but the next guy the call right after may get the opportunity. By answering I at least have a chance to get the booty.

By ignoring every call I get can have a major impact on my living so I can’t just not answer the phone.

 

[ThePennsyOracle]

Yep, but worth a try regardless...I'm sure there are legal avenues available for us, just don't know what that is. If anyone knows anything, share the joy.

I'll share two things I know.

- The DNC list is totally worthless and literally doesn't work.
- Legal avenues? LOL

 

[PennState_one]

I'll share two things I know.

- The DNC list is totally worthless and literally doesn't work.
- Legal avenues? LOL

About the same two things I know

 

[PSU95alum]

Several ways to attack this issue:

- wireless provider apps to help limit the calls. Verizon is coming out with a free service this month.
- 3rd party apps to limit the calls
- do not answer calls from unknown numbers
- place your phone on "do no disturb" and have it so CONTACTS ONLY can call and text you while on DND. For your voicemail message, explain that you accept calls from contacts only since you get too many robocalls, and that the people should leave a message. I'm sure everyone will understand.

When all else fails and the calls are just coming fast and furious, answer the call and go through with what they are asking (with fake info). Many times, these are lead generation companies that will transfer you to a company or agent who is purchasing the leads once they get a live person. Once you get them on the phone, give them fake information and then get their info. And then blow the phuck up on them and tell them that THEY are the reason the world is getting all these calls. Tell them how you will be over to their house to bang on the door 5 times a night when they are sleeping. Or tell them that you are going to murder their family. Whatever it takes.

 

[We Are . . .]

Im gonna flip shit. I get literally 4-5 calls per day from numbers all over the country and including local numbers.

They’re either from a guy claiming I can make $10,000 per month or from some chick offering me reduced health insurance rates at a price i can afford.

They each have the option of pressing a number and connecting to a live person or a number to be placed on the do not call list. I’ve hit the do not call option dozens of times. Just a few minutes ago, I connected to a live person and the second I said I didn’t want what they were selling they disconnected the call.

This has been going on for a couple years but has really ramped up over the last 4 months. I run a businesss and each call to me is a potential sale so it’s getting beyond irritating that I’m accomodating these robo calls. The one I answered was a local number. The out of area numbers I ignore.

Anyone else dealing with this crap? It used to be limited to the landlines and I thought there were laws put in place about the do not call registry. It’s not working.

What, no calls from credit card services? How did you miss out on that?

 

[Kmase21]

I dont answer it. If they dont leave a VM, it's not important. Sometimes I'll call the number back and it will say the number is no longer in service.

Cell phones nowadays allow you to block a number, I probably have 200 blocked numbers running with more on the horizon. F those guys.

 

[MJG-90]

My number and my wife's number are consecutive. Numerous times I've gotten a call, didn't answer. Immediately after my phone stopped ringing, hers began ringing -- from the same number. I believe in a lot of cases, they just dial numbers in order.

But, I also think the third party apps people use on Facebook allow the app to suck in their contact information. Now they start calling people from that contact list trying to sucker you into some scam by using the name of the person you know.

 

[palmettolion]

The other part of this that annoys me. I went through the whole process with the extended car warranty one. When I got to the live person, I very politely told them I had 6 DUI's and didn't own a vehicle or license any longer. They "remove my number" from their database. Now they call, realize they aren't supposed to about 5 seconds into the pre recorded message and hang up. WTF? How about just don't call me in the first place?

 

[UncleRoyBiggins]

The Mandarin callers hang up on me when I start ordering takeout. It's concerning because I don't even get my whole order in......The last few calls to my landline, I played Andrew Dice Clay's "Dirty Nursery Rhymes" to them.

 

[Nitt1300]

It's simple to deal with. Set your phone to only ring when one of your contacts calls- everything else goes to voicemail. Scammers don't leave voicemails, so all you do is delete the missed call.

Life is too short to put up with these assholes, so don't.

 

[jim cummings]

Lol only 4 or 5? My wife gets blasted with over a dozen daily. I heard that downloading certain apps will put your information out there. I just put both of our numbers on the do not call list. They say it takes about 30 days to kick in. We shall see, but yeah, very annoying...

My number has been active in the Do Not Call registry since July 15, 2015.