How to Protect Yourself from Scam Calls in California

Scam calls are an unfortunate reality that many people face, particularly in California. With the rise of technology, scammers have become increasingly sophisticated, employing various tactics to deceive individuals out of their money or personal information. Protecting yourself from these intrusive and often distressing calls is essential. Below are several actionable tips to help you shield yourself from scam calls.

1. Register Your Number with the National Do Not Call Registry
One of the most effective ways to reduce unwanted calls is to register your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry. This service allows you to opt out of receiving telemarketing calls. Although it won’t eliminate all scam calls, it will significantly reduce the volume of legitimate telemarketing calls.

2. Use Call-Blocking Apps
In today's digital age, various apps can help block unwanted calls. These call-blocking applications can identify and block known scam numbers, providing an extra layer of protection. Popular options include Truecaller, Hiya, and RoboKiller, which can be downloaded onto smartphones and configured to your preferences.

3. Be Cautious of Unknown Callers
One of the simplest yet most effective strategies is to be cautious about answering calls from unknown numbers. If a call comes from an unfamiliar number, let it go to voicemail. Scammers often hang up if there’s no immediate response. If it's important, the caller will likely leave a message.

4. Never Share Personal Information
One golden rule when it comes to phone calls—never share personal information like your Social Security number, bank account details, or passwords over the phone, especially if requested by someone you do not know. Legitimate organizations will never ask for sensitive information in this manner.

5. Verify Before Acting
If you receive a call claiming to be from a government agency, bank, or any organization asking for information or money, take a step back. Hang up and look up the official contact number for that organization. Call them directly to verify if the call was legitimate.

6. Report Scam Calls
If you receive a scam call, report it to the appropriate authorities. In California, you can file a complaint with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Reporting these calls can help authorities track down and take action against scammers.

7. Educate Yourself and Others
Staying informed about the latest scams can help you recognize red flags when they arise. Educate friends and family, particularly those who may be more vulnerable, such as the elderly, about the types of scams prevalent in California. Share tips and resources to keep everyone informed.

8. Use Your Phone’s Features
Modern smartphones come equipped with various features to help manage calls. For example, both iOS and Android devices offer options to silence unknown callers or send them directly to voicemail. Familiarize yourself with your phone's settings to enhance your call management and filtering.

Conclusion
Protecting yourself from scam calls is crucial to maintaining your privacy and safeguarding your finances. By employing these strategies in California, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to these fraudulent tactics. Stay vigilant and proactive in your efforts to combat scam calls.