What is harassing a phone call?
When someone calls and uses obscene or threatening language, or even heavy breathing or silence to intimidate you, you are on the receiving end a harassing phone call. It is against the law in many US States and Countries to make obscene or threatening calls collection agency phone harassment.
Whom should I contact about receiving harassing calls?
Local phone companies may have policies on whether to call your phone company or the police first. Some recommend that you first call the phone company and explain the situation. A representative may be able to connect you with the “annoyance officer.” Other phone companies might require you to file a formal complaint with law enforcement first.
Can the phone company solve harassing phone calls?
If the caller uses a throw away mobile phone, a phone booth or multiple phone lines, the phone company and/or law enforcement officials may not be able to find enough information to take further action. In cases such as this, changing your phone number might help or you may want to get a new unlisted number. In addition, the tips listed below for discouraging unwanted calls may be of use.
What can I do to stop harassing calls without involving the police or the phone company?
First, do not engage in conversation, simply hang up. Prank callers are often seeking attention or “a good laugh”. If you say something to express shock or anger, you just “made their day” and the call was worthwhile for them.
What precautions can I take to prevent phone harassment?
Do not disclose any personal information when called by anyone you do not know. They might be checking out the residence for possible crime or robbery (aka “Casing”). If the caller asks what number they called, do not give it. Instead, ask them to tell you what number they dialed. Similarly, if they ask “who am I speaking to”, definitely do not give them your name or any other details.
Don’t include your telephone number on the outgoing voice mail message. By omitting your phone number from your message you prevent random dialers or people with Call Return from capturing this information and reusing it later.
Children should be taught to never reveal information to callers. They should be taught to record the caller’s name and phone number along with date and time. Keep it simple.
Following these simple tips can help to reduce or even eliminate many harassing phone calls before they get our of control.
