Should I Pick Up Unknown Caller ID?
It’s a common dilemma that many of us face – should we pick up calls from unknown numbers or let them go to voicemail? In today’s age of technology and increasing scam calls, it’s important to be cautious and protect ourselves from potential fraud or unwanted solicitations. Here are some reasons why it’s generally advisable to avoid answering calls from unknown numbers:
1. Potential for Scammers: Scammers often use unknown or fake caller IDs to lure unsuspecting individuals into their schemes. They may pretend to be someone from a legitimate organization, such as a bank or government agency, in order to gain your trust and extract personal information or money from you. By answering their calls, you risk falling victim to their fraudulent tactics.
2. Unwanted Solicitations: Unknown numbers can also belong to telemarketers or salespeople who are trying to sell you something you may not be interested in. Answering these calls not only wastes your time, but it also opens the door for them to persistently contact you in the future. Hanging up immediately can save you from unnecessary hassle and unwanted sales pitches.
3. Robocalls and Automated Messages: Many scam calls are made by automated systems or robocalls that play pre-recorded messages. If you answer such a call, you may be prompted to press a button or enter a number to supposedly stop receiving calls from them. However, this is just a trick to identify potential targets. Hanging up without engaging with the call is the best course of action.
4. Protecting Personal Information: Answering unknown calls can put your personal information at risk. Scammers may try to extract sensitive data like your social security number, bank account details, or passwords by posing as legitimate entities. By avoiding unknown calls, you minimize the chances of accidentally sharing sensitive information with unknown and potentially malicious individuals.
5. Privacy and Peace of Mind: Letting unknown calls go to voicemail allows you to maintain your privacy and peace of mind. You can review the message later and decide whether it’s worth returning the call based on the content. This way, you have control over who you engage with and can avoid unnecessary interruptions or unwanted conversations.
While there may be instances where you are expecting calls from new or unknown numbers, such as job interviews or important business contacts, it is generally advisable to exercise caution and let unknown calls go to voicemail. By doing so, you protect yourself from scammers, unwanted solicitations, and potential privacy breaches.
Personal Experience: I have personally encountered numerous scam calls and unwanted solicitations from unknown numbers. In the past, I made the mistake of answering some of these calls out of curiosity or thinking it might be an important call. However, I quickly realized the risks involved and the time wasted in dealing with these unwanted calls. Since then, I have adopted the practice of only answering calls from known numbers, and it has saved me from potential scams and unnecessary disturbances.
Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to unknown calls. If it’s a genuine and important call, the caller will likely leave a voicemail or find another way to contact you. Stay vigilant and protect yourself from potential scams and unwanted solicitations by avoiding unknown calls.