How to Report Spam Calls and Help Others Avoid Them

Spam calls, a prevalent issue globally, are unsolicited calls primarily used for telemarketing, scams, and other fraudulent activities. They range from irritating interruptions to serious security threats, making them a significant concern for individuals and businesses alike.

In Australia, the situation is no different. According to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), there were over 30 million complaints about spam calls in 2022 alone, a figure that highlights the escalating problem.

Understanding the Landscape

Spam calls come in various forms, each with a unique set of challenges.

Robocalls are pre-recorded messages sent to a large number of people simultaneously. They are often used for political campaigns or emergency announcements but have increasingly been abused for scams.

Telemarketing spam calls are unsolicited calls from businesses looking to sell their products or services. While legitimate businesses use telemarketing, many scam operations masquerade as telemarketers.

Scam calls are the most dangerous. They aim to deceive individuals into providing personal information or making payments under false pretenses. Examples include the infamous tech support scam, the tax office scam, and more.

The impact of these calls on Australians is significant. Not only do they cause annoyance and disrupt daily life, but they also lead to substantial financial losses from scams. In 2022, Australians reported a total loss of AUD 48 million to phone scams, according to Scamwatch.

Detection and Reporting of Spam Calls

Recognising spam calls is the first line of defence. They often have common red flags, such as calls from unknown international numbers, calls that hang up immediately, or callers requesting sensitive information.

If you receive a suspected spam call, follow these steps:

1. Do not provide any personal information.
2. End the call as soon as possible.
3. Note down the caller's number and any relevant details about the call.
4. Report the call to ACMA via their online complaint form.

ACMA plays a crucial role in managing spam calls in Australia. When a spam call is reported, ACMA analyses the information, identifies trends, and conducts investigations into serious breaches. They also work with phone companies to block scam numbers and raise awareness about spam calls among the public.

By understanding and taking proactive steps against spam calls, we can collectively contribute to a safer telecommunications environment in Australia.

Self-Protection Measures

While reporting spam calls is crucial, prevention is equally important. Here are some practical measures to safeguard yourself:

1. Screen your calls: Let unknown calls go to voicemail. Spammers rarely leave messages.
2. Be cautious with unknown numbers: If you do answer, hang up immediately if the call seems suspicious.
3. Don't share personal information: Never share sensitive information like bank details, passwords, or your address over the phone.
4. Use call-blocking apps: Many apps can identify and block spam calls. Examples include Hiya, Truecaller, and Nomorobo.

Australian Regulations on Spam Calls

Australia has robust regulations to combat spam calls. The Spam Act 2003 prohibits unsolicited marketing calls, while the Do Not Call Register Act 2006 allows people to opt-out of receiving telemarketing calls. Violations of these acts can lead to hefty penalties.

The Telecommunications (Telemarketing and Research Calls) Industry Standard 2017 sets rules about when telemarketers can call, what information they must provide, and how they must behave. Breaches of this standard can also lead to significant fines.

The Role of Technology

Technology plays a significant role in the battle against spam calls. AI and machine learning are now being used to identify and block these calls more effectively. For instance, Google's Phone app uses AI to warn about suspected spam calls.

The future also promises further advancements, such as STIR/SHAKEN technology, which verifies a call's origin and can greatly reduce number spoofing – a common tactic among spammers.

The Role of Telecom Service Providers

Telecom service providers have a responsibility to protect their customers from spam calls. Australian telecom companies are partnering with ACMA to identify and block scam calls more effectively. They're also developing new technologies and offering services to customers to help them manage unwanted calls.

Telecom companies are not just reactive; they're also proactive in educating customers about spam calls and how to deal with them. They provide resources, tools, and tips to help customers stay one step ahead of the spammers.

Summing Up

Dealing with spam calls can be a complex issue, but understanding the landscape and being proactive in your approach can make a significant difference. By educating yourself on the types of spam calls, recognising the red flags, and promptly reporting suspicious calls to ACMA, you can actively contribute to a safer telecommunications environment in Australia.

Prevention plays a crucial role in managing spam calls. Our blog on robocall prevention provides in-depth strategies on stopping these automated calls for good. Understanding the technology used to combat these calls, such as Caller ID, can also be a game-changer in identifying and preventing spam calls.

Moreover, if you're frequently receiving unsolicited calls from a particular number, phone number blacklisting is an effective strategy to block these calls, ensuring your peace of mind.

Remember, vigilance and awareness are our best defences in the fight against spam calls. Let's stand together to make the Australian telecommunications environment safer and spam-free.