Is There Any Way to Stop Getting Unwanted Robocalls?

February 20, 2020

Whether it's a helpful announcement from your child's school or an appointment reminder from a doctor's office, getting robocalls has become an everyday occurrence. Unfortunately, robocalls are also used by criminals to collect consumers' personal and financial information and/or conduct various scams.


The good news is that consumers have won additional protections against unwanted robocalls under the Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act. One of the main goals of the law is to make it easier for consumers to avoid unwanted robocalls by:
  • Requiring all carriers to implement caller-ID technology at no additional cost to consumers
  • Making it easier for law enforcement to prosecute illegal robocallers and increasing penalties for robocall violations
  • Creating an interagency task force to study and improve government prosecution of robocall violations
Even when these new protections are implemented, it will take some time to eliminate unwanted robocalls. In the meantime, here are some things you can do to protect yourself:
  • Don't answer calls when you don't recognize the phone number.
  • If you pick up an unwanted robocall, hang up right away and avoid answering "yes" or "no" questions, providing personal information, or pressing a number to "opt out."
  • Consider signing up for a robocall blocking service. Many phone service providers now offer robocall blocking solutions at no additional charge, or you can download additional robocall protection through a third-party app.
  • Register your phone number on the National Do Not Call (DNC) Registry, which removes your number from the call lists used by legitimate telemarketing companies. Keep in mind that registering with the DNC Registry will result in your getting fewer calls from legitimate telemarketers, but it won't stop illegal robocallers from contacting you.

All Securities Through Money Concepts Capital Corp., Member FINRA / SIPC

11440 North Jog Road, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 Phone: 561.472.2000

Copyright 2010 Money Concepts International Inc.



Investments are not FDIC or NCUA Insured

May Lose Value - No Bank or Credit Union Guarantee

This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of MI. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.
Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2020.
Man at desk in a modern office, gazing thoughtfully out the window, laptop in front of him.
By TFC Team October 21, 2025
It is important to review your beneficiary forms. Even if your family situation remains the same, making sure your designations reflect your current wishes is good.
Man and woman looking at a laptop together, woman wearing red and man blue, in front of a bright window.
By TFC Team October 21, 2025
Learn about different deductions that can help you with your taxes. We recommend reviewing your tax strategy towards to end of each year to find opportunities.
Three generations of women smiling and planting.
By TFC Team October 21, 2025
What is the "sandwich generation" and how to navagate it. We highlight five key impacts to help you while caring for children and aging adults in your life.
People holding coins, gift boxes, and a heart, promoting charity or support.
By TFC Team October 21, 2025
We show the numbers of charitable giving in billions compared to inflation from 2015 through 2024. How will tax treatments of charitable contributions effect giving?
Show More