Phone firms get new tools to block spam calls

Spam callers have tricky technology that alters what pops up on a phone’s caller ID to a local number, or one from an official organization, so you’re more likely to pick up

Phone companies will have greater authority to block unwanted calls from reaching customers as regulators adopted new rules to combat automated messages known as robocalls.

Rules adopted Thursday by the Federal C o m m u n i c a t i o n s Commission represent the latest tools against robocalls, which pester consumers, sometimes multiple times each day, and often push scams. The agency, which regulates the country’s phone, broadcast TV and Internet services, also hopes that recent big fines will help deter scammers.

Phone companies can already block some calls that trick consumers by showing up on Caller ID with fake numbers. The new rules make clear that they can block additional calls that are likely scams, such as numbers that start with a 911 area code, or one that isn’t currently assigned to anyone.

The changes won’t stop robocalls completely, though experts say these steps are a good start.

The federal and state “Do Not Call” lists are supposed to protect people from unwanted calls from telemarketers. But scammers don’t care about breaking the law.

Scammers reach people cheaply and easily using autodialers, which spew out a large number of calls automatically. It’s estimated that Americans receive tens of millions of robocalls every day. Not all of them are fraudsters, of course. Pharmacies send automated messages about prescriptions being filled. But too often, it’s this: you owe the IRS money; it’s Microsoft calling to fix your computer; free cruises!

Spam callers have tricky technology that alters what pops up on a phone’s caller ID to a local number, or one from an official organisation, so you’re more likely to pick up.

Experts have said these are solid developments, but won’t protect consumers from all unwanted calls. Not every one of those is from a spoofed number. Debt collectors and political campaigns are not covered under the Do Not Call lists.