1.) Register with the free Telephone Preference Service (TPS) by calling 08450700707.

Companies based in the UK must not make unsolicited marketing and sales calls to TPS-registered phone numbers.

This applies even if the call centre is located overseas. Foreign companies are not however obliged to comply with TPS rules. Studies indicate that signing up for the TPS can stop up to 34% of nuisance calls. 

There are also a number of loopholes companies use to overcome TPS regulations, for example by performing 'survey' calls which turn into sales calls. 

2. Go ex-directory.

Some companies, particularly local businesses, may use online or paper phone books to find numbers to target with sales and marketing calls.

If you are not in the directory then these businesses have no way of tracking you down. Also the name and address listed in the phone book provides scammers information to support any false claim that they already have a commercial relationship with you.

3. Screen your phone calls.

This is not a way of preventing the call in the first place and can be time consuming, bit it means you won't have to speak to a nuisance caller, although their call rings may be annoying.

4. Keep your name off sales call lists.

Data protection laws ban companies from calling you for marketing purposes if you’ve asked them not to, even if you are a customer.

The best way to guarantee this is to carefully tick, or untick, the box in which you agree to opt in or out of direct marketing. be careful as some companies pre-tick boxes in order to confuse customers. Read these sections carefully. 

5. Use call blocking technology. For more information call 0800 652 7780

Call Blocking technology is the only way to effectively block up to and including 100% of nuisance and scam calls. Depending on how it is used, the user can select which numbers come through to their phone and which ones do not, to their own personal preference. 

For more information on call blocking technology and methods to stop scam and nuisance calls, please call our experts freephone on 0800 652 7780.