Safe call bombing is a type of digital harassment that uses automated calls to repeatedly disrupt the communication of the recipient. It can be challenging to prevent or put an end to this behavior, but there are measures you can take to protect yourself from it. In this article, we will provide some helpful tips for safeguarding yourself from safe call bombing.
One way to shield yourself from safe call bombing is to block any unknown numbers from calling you. Most smartphones come with a feature that lets you block numbers that are not in your contact list. Additionally, you can use a call blocking app that can automatically identify and block calls from known spam or scam numbers. You can also enable do not disturb mode on your phone to silence incoming calls and notifications, except for those from your contacts list or those who call repeatedly.
If you’re experiencing safe call bombing, report the incident to the relevant authorities, such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the United States or the police or Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) in the United Kingdom. Moreover, seeking legal assistance may be necessary if the harassment persists or escalates. Remember, taking action to protect yourself is crucial when dealing with safe call bombing.
Block Unknown Numbers
One of the simplest ways to protect yourself from safe call bombing is to block unknown numbers. Most smartphones have a built-in feature that allows you to block numbers that are not in your contacts list. If you receive a call from an unknown number, you can block it to prevent future calls from that number.
Use a Call Blocking App
In addition to blocking unknown numbers, you can also use a call blocking app to protect yourself from safe call bombing. These apps use a database of known spam and scam numbers to automatically block calls from these numbers. Some apps also allow you to create a custom list of numbers to block.
Enable Do Not Disturb Mode
Enabling do not disturb mode on your phone can also help protect you from safe call bombing. This mode silences all incoming calls and notifications, except for those from your contacts list or those who call repeatedly. You can customize the settings to allow calls from certain numbers or to only allow calls from your favorites list.
Use a Call Screening Service
Some phone service providers offer call screening services that can help protect you from safe call bombing. These services use advanced algorithms to screen incoming calls and block those that are deemed spam or fraudulent. Check with your phone service provider to see if this service is available to you.
Avoid Sharing Your Phone Number
Another way to protect yourself from safe call bombing is to avoid sharing your phone number whenever possible. Be cautious about sharing your number on social media or other online platforms, and only share it with trusted sources. Consider using a secondary phone number for online transactions or other activities that may require sharing your number.
Report the Incident
If you do become a victim of safe call bombing, it’s important to report the incident to the appropriate authorities. In the United States, you can report the incident to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). In the United Kingdom, you can report the incident to the police or to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
Seek Legal Assistance
If the safe call bombing persists or becomes severe, you may need to seek legal assistance. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options for taking legal action against the perpetrator.
Conclusion
Safe call bombing is a serious form of digital harassment that can be difficult to prevent or stop. However, by taking the steps outlined in this article, you can protect yourself from this form of harassment. Blocking unknown numbers, using a call blocking app, enabling do not disturb mode, using a call screening service, avoiding sharing your phone number, reporting the incident, and seeking legal assistance are all effective ways to protect yourself from safe call bombing. Remember, if you become a victim of safe call bombing, it’s important to take action to protect yourself and to report the incident to the appropriate authorities.