Protect Yourself from Unwanted Calls on Cell Phones and Landlines

Information on how to protect yourself from unwanted calls on cell phones and landlines.

The first thing that can be done for every phone number is to register for the National Do Not Call Registry. This must be done for every phone number individually and can be done by going to www.donotcall.gov or by calling 1(888)382-1222 from the number you wish to add to the list. This is a free lifetime registration offered by the FTC for all personal phone numbers to prevent unwanted sales calls. Once registered, your number(s) will be added to the list within 24 hours, but it can take up to 31 days for calls to stop.

The purpose of the Registry is to inform telemarketers of what numbers they should not be calling. The FTC does not and cannot block calls, nor can they stop scammers from ignoring the registry. The Registry does not apply to political, charitable, debt collection, info only, or survey calls (any calls that do not include a sales pitch).

Block Calls on a Cell Phone: Each provider has their own free app that offer paid upgrades for additional services. (Three Major Providers)

• AT&T- ActiveArmor
• Verizon- Call Filter
• T-Mobile- Scam Shield

Block Calls on a Landline:
This information is for landlines that use the internet/VoIP(Voice over Internet Protocol)
Some providers offer free call blocking services that can be added to your plan at no charge.

If your landline is not a VoIP line, a separately installed device can be purchased and attached to your phone to screen calls.

Finally, if you are not able to find an app or service directly through your cellular or landline provider, there is a program that works with both mobile and VoIP landline devices with both free and paid plans. You can get more information about their services and coverage online at www.nomorobo.com

*If you need additional assistance, contact the Town Clerk’s office at (914)962-5722 x273