Robo Rage: Getting your ‘good number’ off robocall lists

WASHINGTON — Federal agencies are working furiously with mobile carriers and on new technology to stop robocalls. But there are steps consumers can take to reduce the number of robocalls they receive, starting with a change in their call behavior.

“Just the mere fact you answer will put you on the list,” said Alex Quilici, the CEO of YouMail, a call-blocking app. He understands the temptation to tell a robocaller to lose your number or ask it questions in return. But that approach backfires.

“A good number for them is one that answers the phone. So if it ever asks you to press 9 to get off the list. Don’t. Pressing 9 will put you on the list,” he said.

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