How to Find the Spam Folder in Gmail

How to Tell if an Incoming Call Is Spam

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The phone is ringing. Should you answer? If it's an important call, of course you want to take it. But so many phone calls today are nothing but spam. How do you tell the difference before you -pick up the phone? Here are some tips to help you identify if a call is likely to be spam.

The Caller Is Not in Your Contact List

Realistically, how many valid, important calls do you get from people who aren't in your contact list? Not very many. If a phone number comes through and you don't recognize it, don't answer. You can send it through to voicemail and if it's important, they'll leave a message. To make this easier, make sure that companies you do business with are in your contact list.

The Caller ID Shows "Suspected Spam"

Google has rolled out a very nice feature that labels numbers as spam when they've been reported by other users. If you see this, you can send it to voicemail without any concerns. As mentioned above, if it is a serious caller, they can leave a message. Of course, sometimes spammers leave messages too, which is obnoxious, but it's less common. You can always call someone back if you miss a valid call.

The Number Is Suspiciously Close to Yours

If a number isn't a contact you know but has the same area code and first three digits as your own, you may be getting a spoofed call. Scammers need you to pick up the phone if they're going to get you to pay them money, buy their product, or hand over personal information. The newest way they try to trick you – and phone companies – is by spoofing a call so it appears to be coming from a local number. Sometimes the incoming number will appear to be a friend or business you know, so you'll pick up. If the call seems odd or they're asking for personal information, hang up and call the legitimate person or business back directly. This will verify the mobile number. You may be surprised to find out they didn't call you at all. The call was from another number that pretended it was your friend.

Your Spam or Phone App Says It's a Spam Call

There are a variety of phone apps available that can help you screen calls and reduce the amount of spam you actually answer. Different apps have different success rates, so be sure to read reviews carefully – especially the most recent reviews. Sometimes your phone or carrier will offer their own spam app or screening system. Take advantage of it. It will save you a lot of hassle. You can also use a mobile number area tracker that will tell you the location and service provider of a phone number. An app that gives you a mobile number location tracker won't help with spoofed calls, but will help give mobile number details so you can avoid a lot of other marketing calls.

Just Don't Answer.

In the end, remember that if there's an emergency folks will leave a message. There's nothing wrong with not answering calls when you don't know the number. Screening is a lifesaver – it saves you time and prevents you from falling for scams. In fact, unless you're expecting a call you can leave your phone on silent throughout the day. It will help your focus and you can always check messages later.

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