Tired of getting endless robocalls? Robocalls aren’t just a pain to get, they’re often pushing scams for bogus services such as fake extended auto warranties and debt relief. But robocallers can’t do it alone. That’s why the Federal Trade Commission is taking action against Stratics Networks, a company that supplied the technology for telemarketers to make tens of millions of robocalls. But that’s not all — the FTC is also suing the debt relief companies that hired Stratics to make robocalls for their illegal debt relief services.
According to the FTC, Stratics delivered illegal robocalls for telemarketers promoting offers for credit card and student debt relief, home buying, health insurance, and cable TV discounts. Many robocalls were “ringless voicemails” — where your phone doesn’t ring but you get a voicemail with a robocall message.
Here’s what to know: a robocall trying to sell you something is illegal unless the company has your written permission to call you. Scammers use robocalls to get your money or your personal information so they can steal your identity. They might try to convince you the call is from the government, tech support, or your auto warranty company. Don’t buy it. Even if the name or number on the caller ID looks real, it could’ve been faked.
If you get an illegal robocall:
- Hang up or delete the voicemail. Don’t press any number or call back.
- Get call blocking and call labeling apps or services. This will help you get fewer robocalls.
- Report it. Tell the FTC at DoNotCall.gov.
For more information, click here.
Teaching Suggestions
- Make a list of common scams that target personal information and discuss how to detect and stop illegal robocalls.
- Ask students what they do when they receive unwanted calls, emails, and text messages that are annoying, might be illegal, and are probably scams?
Discussion Questions
- Why should one think twice before buying an extended auto warranty from a robocaller? Or, a debt relief service?
- What actions can you take to minimize the number of robocalls you receive from scammers? How can you fight back and lower your risk of being a victim?
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