Robocalls are automated, pre-recorded phone calls used to deliver messages to large numbers of people. They have become commonplace and are used for a variety of purposes, from marketing campaigns to political campaigns.
Unfortunately, they can also be used by scammers in an attempt to deceive unsuspecting victims. Thus the need for awareness and action, by call receivers to take caution each time they answer a call from an unknown number, becomes prudent.
The situation has become so dire that it has required the implementation of laws to regulate the behaviour.
So, Why and How Do They Get Your Number?
Data brokers. These entities can get information from public records, social media activities, credit card providers, retail stores and more and sell it to those who will use it.
Information gathered can vary and it can depend on the company that has purchased your information. For example, from your social media activities, your likes, comments and posts can provide information on your preferences. Marketers will use the information in advertising specific products and services based on these preferences.
Since data brokers collect information to sell, not all buyers of your information use personal information with good intentions or do not exploit it. Robocallers may purchase some of their contacts to call through data brokers, so opting out from these sites will most likely reduce the amount of robocalls you receive.
Implement Caller ID & Call Blocking Technology
Caller ID and call-blocking technology are increasingly popular tools for managing incoming calls. These technologies help you identify the caller, block unwanted calls, and protect your privacy.
With the right caller ID and call-blocking technology, you can easily distinguish between legitimate calls and spam or venomous calls. As a result, you can ensure that your phone line is not used to spread malicious content or scam people.
Additionally, you can stay in control of who is calling you and when they are calling. Some apps allow you to identify a caller before you pick up.
With the rise of online scams and cybercrime, it is essential to monitor all your accounts and personal information from the internet to ensure that nothing goes wrong.
The Legal Assistance
Lawmakers have come on board to provide relief against the barrage of robocalls, which has been estimated to be over 50 billion calls a year. Not only have the complaints against these unwanted callers risen, but the number of scams associated with robocalls has.
The purpose of the law is varied in this regard as some seek to register and regulate information brokers. There is legislation that focuses on information brokers as well as information buyers to be transparent on what information is being sold and what its to be used for. This helps in the monitoring of ethical conduct by parties.
Conclusion
Information brokers gather sensitive data such as health, location and finances that leave individuals vulnerable to hackers, scams as well as spam. With the legislation implementing regulations, companies and organised groups avail themselves to help clients exercise their rights to protect their information.