Unwanted telemarketing calls can be frustrating, disruptive, and potentially lead to falling victim to scams. As seniors, it is essential to take steps to protect ourselves from these unwanted calls and maintain our privacy. One effective tool to reduce telemarketing calls is by registering on the National Do Not Call Registry. In this Do Not Call for seniors, we’ll walk you through the process of registering on the registry and provide useful tips to maximize its effectiveness in reducing unwanted calls.

1. What is the National Do Not Call Registry?

• The National Do Not Call Registry is a service provided by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in collaboration with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that allows individuals to opt-out of receiving telemarketing calls.
• Once you register your phone number on the registry, telemarketers are prohibited from calling you unless they have your prior written consent or you have an existing business relationship with them.

2. Registering on the National Do Not Call Registry:

• Online Registration: The easiest and quickest way to register is by visiting the official website of the National Do Not Call Registry at donotcall.gov. On the homepage, click on the “Register Your Phone” button.
• Phone Registration: If you prefer to register by phone, you can call the toll-free number 1-888-382-1222 from the phone number you wish to register. Follow the automated prompts to complete the registration.
• TTY Users: TTY users can call 1-866-290-4236 to register their phone numbers.
• Email Registration: If you do not have internet access, you can send an email to register@donotcall.gov with your phone number(s) in the body of the email. You will receive a confirmation email once your number is successfully registered.

3. Tips for Maximizing the Effectiveness of the National Do Not Call Registry:

• Be Patient: It may take up to 31 days from the date of registration for the Do Not Call Registry to take full effect. During this time, you may still receive calls from telemarketers. However, after the waiting period, the number of unwanted calls should significantly decrease.
• Keep Your Number Current: If you change your phone number or acquire a new one, remember to update your registration information on the Do Not Call Registry to ensure continued protection against unwanted calls.
• Beware of Scams: Registering your number on the National Do Not Call Registry is free and does not require any payment or personal information beyond your phone number. Beware of scams claiming to offer registry services for a fee or requesting additional information.
• Report Violations: If you continue to receive unwanted calls after registering on the Do Not Call Registry, report the violations to the FTC at donotcall.gov or by calling 1-888-382-1222. Reporting such incidents helps authorities take action against violators.

This Do Not Call for Seniors is a valuable step for seniors to protect themselves from unwanted telemarketing calls. By following the simple registration process outlined above and adhering to the waiting period, you can significantly reduce the number of disruptive and potentially fraudulent calls you receive. Remember to stay vigilant, keep your registration information up to date, and report any violations to the FTC. With these proactive measures, seniors can regain control of their phone lines and enjoy a greater sense of privacy and peace of mind.