How to Defend Against Spam Calls in Canada

Introduction

Spam calls are a nuisance that many Canadians encounter daily. Follow this web story to stay protected against phone scams.

Register on the National Do Not Call List

Add your number to the National Do Not Call List to reduce the number of telemarketing calls you receive. Visit their website or call 1-866-580-DNCL (3625).

Identify Unknown Numbers

Avoid answering calls from unknown or suspicious numbers, especially those with caller IDs like 877-453-0539 or 1-877-453-0539.

Avoid Personal Information

Legitimate organizations won't ask for sensitive information over the phone. Be cautious about sharing personal or financial data with unknown callers.

Beware of Threats or Urgency

Scammers often create a sense of urgency or use threats to pressure you. Hang up if the caller behaves aggressively or demands immediate action.

Do Not Respond to Robocalls

Robocalls are automated messages from scammers. Don't respond to them or press any keys as it may verify your active number to be targeted further.

Use Call Blocking Apps

Install call blocking apps on your smartphone to automatically filter out potential spam calls. These apps can be a great defense against phone scammers.

Report Spam Calls

Report spam calls to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. Your information can help prevent others from falling victim to scams.

Be Cautious of Caller ID Spoofing

Scammers can manipulate caller IDs to appear as legitimate businesses or government agencies. Don't solely trust caller ID information.

Educate Elderly Family Members

Elderly individuals are often targeted by scammers. Educate your family members about potential phone scams and how to stay protected.

Avoid Callbacks

If you miss a call from an unknown number, avoid calling back, as it might be a premium-rate number that can lead to high charges.

Keep Devices Updated

Regularly update your devices and operating systems to ensure you have the latest security features, protecting you from potential vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

By following these 12 points, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to spam calls in Canada. Stay vigilant and safeguard your personal information from scammers.