Manipulated Robocalls Pestering Neighbors on the Rise
In the ever-evolving world of telecommunications, one issue that continues to vex consumers across the United States is the onslaught of robocalls. These automated calls, often used for telemarketing purposes, have become the most common consumer complaint to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
The Robocall Index, a valuable resource, ranks area codes based on the number of robocalls received. However, the top 10 U.S. area codes most affected by robocalls in 2021 remain unlisted. Despite this, it's clear that the robocall problem has permeated numerous regions of the country, fuelled in part by caller ID spoofing and the low cost of making simultaneous calls via VoIP technologies, leading to billions of robocalls annually.
Large urban areas with high populations and dense telecommunications usage are particularly vulnerable. For instance, Detroit, with area codes such as 313, has been targeted by robocall operations in political interference cases.
The telecom industry is not standing idle in the face of this challenge. The Industry Robocall Strike Force, a collaborative effort, is working tirelessly to prevent, detect, and filter fraudulent robocalls.
The FCC has taken decisive action against robocall offenders. In 2017, a health insurance telemarketer faced an $82 million fine for making millions of illegally spoofed robocalls.
To minimise unwanted robocalls, the Federal Trade Commission and other agencies recommend the use of call blocking tools and registration on the National Do Not Call Registry. However, it's important to note that the National Do Not Call Registry, established 14 years ago, did not prevent the receipt of robocalls.
Robocallers often spoof local or similar area codes to increase the chance that recipients answer calls. They may also employ schemes like ringless voicemail to get people's personal information and money.
In response, phone companies offer robocall-blocking services, and the Truth in Caller ID Act prohibits caller ID spoofing with the intent to defraud, cause harm, or wrongly obtain anything of value.
As the battle against robocalls continues, it's crucial for consumers to stay vigilant and aware. If you're unsure about a call, let it go to voicemail, and if it's a robocall, it's likely you've avoided a potential scam.
[1] Source: Various telecommunications reports from entities like the FCC, Truecaller, or Robokiller. [2] Source: Detroit Free Press [3] Source: Federal Trade Commission
- The exponential growth of robocalls poses not only a nuisance but also a risk to consumers' money, cybersecurity, and health, as they may fall prey to scams or be dissuaded from seeking necessary health services due to constant interruptions.
- The continued propagation of robocalls, often masquerading as local numbers, jeopardizes personal data and financial security, with some callers employing ringless voicemail tactics to obtain sensitive information.
