Leslie Massey
Spam calls and messages are an ongoing issue in Australia, with scam companies accessing phone numbers through data leaks or sharing from other companies. To spam a mobile number in Australia, you can register the number with the Do Not Call Register, a free service that allows individuals to opt out of receiving unsolicited telemarketing calls and faxes. Additionally, you can use third-party apps like Smart Call by Samsung, which allows users to block spam and search for local businesses. Another option is to use a verified screening app, some of which are available for free. However, it's important to note that spamming a mobile number may be unethical and illegal in certain jurisdictions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How to deal with spam calls | Use Smart Call to block spam and search for local businesses |
| Turn on your phone's caller ID and spam protection settings | |
| Use your phone's spam filter | |
| Download a verified screening app | |
| Screen calls from unknown numbers | |
| Block the number and report the scam | |
| Register your number on the Do Not Call Register | |
| How to identify spam calls | Receiving an unexpected call from an unknown or overseas number |
| Receiving SMS messages asking you to click a link | |
| Receiving calls from people pretending to be from well-known organisations |
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What You'll Learn
Blocking spam calls
Dealing with spam calls can be a headache, but there are several ways to block them on both Android and iOS devices.
Android Devices
Android devices have built-in features for blocking specific phone numbers, and the process varies based on the manufacturer and operating system. Typically, you can open the Phone app, select 'Recent Calls' or 'Call History', tap the number you want to block, and then select 'Block' and/or 'Report as Spam'. Confirm the request to block the number. Some Android devices also let you block all unknown callers. Additionally, your mobile carrier will likely provide built-in tools or apps to help block suspected spam calls, although some advanced features may require an additional subscription.
IOS Devices
For iOS devices, you can enable the ''Silence Unknown Callers' feature in your settings to avoid getting calls from people you don't know. This feature blocks numbers that aren't in your contacts or that you haven't contacted recently, sending them straight to voicemail. You can also download third-party apps that detect and block spam calls from the App Store. These apps compare the caller's number to a list of phone numbers in their database and may automatically block the call if it's identified as spam.
Other Tips
In addition to blocking numbers, there are a few other things you can do to reduce spam calls:
- Be cautious about giving out your phone number: Avoid providing your number to websites, accounts, stores, or real estate agents.
- Register with the Do Not Call Register: In Australia, you can register your phone number with the Do Not Call Register to opt out of receiving unsolicited telemarketing calls. However, note that this may not stop all scammers and disreputable telemarketers.
- Be vigilant: Never provide personal information, transfer money, or give remote access to your computer over the phone. Be wary of a sense of urgency or threats, and be cautious of callers impersonating high-profile brands or agencies.
- Report scams: If you encounter a scam, report it to Scamwatch and contact your financial institution if you've sent money or shared personal information.
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Using a screening app
If you're receiving spam calls on your mobile phone in Australia, there are several screening apps available that can help you block them. Here are some suggestions on using a screening app to deal with spam calls:
Choosing a Screening App
Firstly, you'll need to choose a suitable app for your device. If you have an iPhone, you can use the built-in Silence Unknown Callers feature if you have iOS 13 or later. This will automatically block calls from numbers that aren't in your contacts list or from people you haven't previously communicated with via text or email. Alternatively, you can download third-party apps that detect and block spam calls. Go to the App Store and search for apps that offer this feature. Some apps are free, while others may require a subscription.
For Google Pixel phones, there's a built-in call screening feature. When you receive a call, you can hit a button, and a robot will answer and transcribe what the caller says, helping you determine if it's a legitimate call.
If you have a Samsung phone, you can try the Smart Call app, which offers caller ID and spam protection features.
Setting Up the App
Once you've chosen an app, you'll need to set it up on your device. Follow the app's instructions to enable its call-blocking features. Usually, this involves granting the app access to your call history and contacts. You may also be able to customise the app's settings, such as the order in which it checks multiple apps.
Blocking Spam Calls
With your chosen app set up, it will now screen incoming calls. When you receive a call, the app will compare the caller's number to its database of known spam numbers. If it's a match, the app may automatically block the call, or it may display a label like "Spam" or "Telemarketing" to warn you. You can then choose to decline the call.
Reporting Spam Calls
In addition to blocking spam calls, some apps and services allow you to report them. For instance, Samsung's Smart Call app lets you report spam numbers by selecting the type of spam, adding a comment, and tapping "Report". You can also report scam calls, where someone pretends to be from a legitimate organisation to trick you into sharing personal information, to the Australian Signals Directorate's ReportCyber portal or Scamwatch.
Additional Tips
To further reduce spam calls, you can register your mobile number with the Do Not Call Register, a free service that aims to reduce unsolicited telemarketing calls. Additionally, be cautious about sharing your phone number online or with businesses, as data breaches can expose your details to spammers. Consider setting your phone to only ring for numbers in your contacts, and always be wary of calls or messages from unknown numbers asking for personal information.
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Registering for the 'Do Not Call' list
The Do Not Call Register is a secure Australian database where individuals and organisations can register, check, or remove their telephone, mobile, and fax numbers to opt out of receiving unsolicited telemarketing calls and marketing faxes. Registration is free, and you only need to do it once. Once registered, a number will remain on the list indefinitely unless the number owner or their representative removes it.
You can register your number online or over the phone. If you register online, you will need to provide an email address. If you would prefer not to provide your email address, you can register by calling 1300 792 958.
After registering your number, you should notice a reduction in calls within 30 days. Telemarketers and fax marketers have 30 days from the date of your registration to check their lists and stop contacting you. However, registering your mobile number will not prevent you from receiving SMS marketing or scam calls. Calls from registered charities, research companies, registered political parties, and educational institutions are also exempt from the Do Not Call Register.
If you wish to remove your number from the register, you can do so at any time by calling 1300 792 958 or writing to [email protected].
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Reporting spam numbers
If you are receiving spam calls or messages, there are several steps you can take to reduce or stop them. You can also report spam and scam messages to the relevant authorities in Australia.
Reducing and Stopping Spam
Firstly, you can block the sender in your phone settings or email filters if they continue to send unwanted messages. You can also contact your telecom provider for advice on spam filtering and blocking. It is also important to be cautious when giving out your contact details for competitions, surveys, or reward systems, as you may be agreeing to receive marketing messages. Be wary of promotions or lotteries, as these often aim to obtain your personal information.
Reporting Spam
If you are receiving spam messages, you can report them to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). The ACMA is responsible for the operation of the Do Not Call Register, a secure database where individuals can register their numbers to opt out of receiving unsolicited telemarketing calls and faxes. If your number is registered and you still receive such calls, you can lodge a complaint with the ACMA through the Do Not Call website or by calling 1300 792 958.
Reporting Scams
If you believe you are receiving scam messages or calls, you can report them to Scamwatch. Scamwatch uses the information received to keep Australians informed about scams, monitor trends, and find ways to disrupt scams. You can also report cybercrime or security incidents to ReportCyber, a service provided by the Australian Cyber Security Centre. Additionally, if you have given your personal information to a scammer, you can contact IDCARE, a not-for-profit national identity and cyber support service. They can help you develop a response plan and support you through the process.
It is important to note that registering your number on the Do Not Call Register may not stop illegitimate scam communications. If you are receiving harassing or life-threatening communications, you can refer to the industry code for Handling of Life-Threatening and Unwelcome Communications. This code outlines common industry procedures for handling consumer complaints about offensive, menacing, or harassing communications.
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Identifying scam calls
Scam calls are a serious issue in Australia, with financial losses totalling $141 million last year. Scammers use sophisticated techniques to deceive people, making it challenging to identify scam calls at times. Here are some essential guidelines to help you identify scam calls and protect yourself:
Be Wary of Unknown Callers
Always be cautious about calls or texts from unknown numbers, especially if they claim to be from well-known organisations or government agencies. Scammers may disguise their phone numbers to appear local or use spoofing technology to display a familiar contact number, such as your bank's. They may also impersonate trusted institutions like banks, government departments, or telecommunication providers to pressure you into sharing personal or financial information.
Recognise Pressure Tactics
Scammers often create a sense of urgency to prompt quick actions from their victims. They may threaten you with fines or legal consequences or claim that you've won a prize that requires immediate action. Remember that legitimate organisations will not pressure you to make rushed decisions or share sensitive information over the phone.
Verify Caller Information
When in doubt, don't answer the call. Let it go to voicemail, and if the caller leaves a number, verify it by checking the official website of the organisation they claim to represent. Do not rely on the contact information provided in the message or call. Instead, find the information yourself by visiting the website or using a verified app.
Beware of Messages with Links or Attachments
Scammers often send messages with links or attachments, aiming to direct you to scam websites or compromise your device. Do not click on any links or open attachments unless you are absolutely certain of the sender's identity and the legitimacy of the message. Always verify the sender's information independently.
Protect Your Personal Information
Never provide personal details, passwords, login information, banking details, or multi-factor authentication codes to unsolicited callers. If someone claims to be from a trusted organisation and asks for such information, hang up and contact the organisation directly using their official contact channels to verify the caller's authenticity.
Report Scam Calls
If you receive a scam call or suspect suspicious activity, you can report it to Scamwatch or ReportCyber. These organisations work to protect Australians from cyber threats and cyber-related crimes. Additionally, you can register your number on the Do Not Call Register to opt out of receiving unsolicited telemarketing calls.
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Frequently asked questions
It is not possible to spam a mobile number in Australia. However, if you are receiving spam calls, you can block them by turning on your phone’s caller ID and spam protection in your phone settings. You can also report spam numbers by selecting the type of spam, writing a comment, and tapping the 'Report' button in your Call Settings.
Spam calls are generally unwanted marketing calls from legitimate companies. Some red flags that you might be receiving a spam call include receiving an unexpected call from an unknown or overseas number.
If you receive a spam call, hang up immediately and block their number on your phone. You can also report the number by turning on your phone’s caller ID and spam protection in your phone settings.
