A robocall is a phone call that delivers a pre-recorded message using a computerized autodialer, as if from a robot. Robocalls are often associated with political and telemarketing phone campaigns, but can also be used for public service or emergency announcements. Multiple businesses and telemarketing companies use auto-dialing software to deliver prerecorded messages (appointment reminders, booking details, etc.) to millions of users. Some robocalls use personalized audio messages to simulate an actual personal phone call. However, robocalls that try to sell something are illegal unless a company has the recipients written consent to call them in that way.

Robocalls are often used by scammers to hook unsuspecting victims. Types of spam calls or robocall scams include calls that spoof or imitate a local number or that of a well-known company, calls about products you dont own, and messages that seem urgent. If you receive a spam robocall, the best thing to do is not answer. If you answer the call, your number is considered good by the scammers, even if you dont necessarily fall for the scam. They will try again because they know someone on the other side is a potential victim of fraud. The less you answer, the fewer robocalls you will receive.

To stop robocalls, you can use call-blocking and call-labeling solutions. The call-blocking or call-labeling option you choose will depend on whether you’re getting calls on a cell phone, traditional landline, or home phone that makes calls over the internet (VoIP) . If you receive a robocall trying to sell you something (and you haven’t given the caller your written permission), it’s an illegal call. You should hang up and file a complaint with the FTC and the National Do Not Call Registry.