How you can block out the menace
GO ex-directory. Contact your landline provider and request your number be removed from public view.
ASK your phone provider what callblocking services it provides. BT Call Protect, Sky Talk Shield and TalkTalk’s CallSafe are all free for customers.
REGISTER with the telephone preference service. Visit tpsonline.org.uk.
LOOK for ‘tick-boxes’. When signing forms to receive deals or buy products, look for checkboxes in the small print that ask for a tick to opt in, or require a tick to opt out. This is consent to be contacted by that company and, potentially, other third parties.
DOWNLOAD a call-blocking app for mobile phones. Examples include Truecaller and Mr Number. People with the latest iPhones – those with iOS 13 or later – can ‘silence unknown callers’.
REPORT nuisance calls and texts to the Information Commissioner’s Office at ico.org.uk/make-a-complaint/. Report silent or abandoned calls to Ofcom at ofcom.org.uk/complaints. Forward junk text messages on to 7726 for free. These are reported to your network provider.
BUY a call blocker. Examples include trueCall and CPR Call Blocker. TrueCall’s Secure model is £120 to buy – but family members can screen callers to the landline of a vulnerable relative, only letting approved numbers filter through. Optional online management of the service is £25 a year with the first year free.