Each and every time you take a phone call can prove interesting.
Sure, many calls typically end up being those you know, be they family or friends. Other calls will be confirmation of upcoming appointments (doctors, business associates, clients etc.). The “other” batch of calls one typically receives are those which can be a little more disconcerting.
For example, do you get calls from telemarketers, that is even though you are supposedly on a list that bans such intrusions?
Another unwelcome scenario is receiving calls from former friends are co-workers, people you’d actually prefer not hear from again.
No matter what the action may involve, having the ability to do a phone number search online can save you time and hassle.
So, is it important to you to know who is on the other line?
Protecting Your Right to Privacy
In today’s digital age, a person’s information is hardly secretive, that is despite how much they try and protect it.
For instance, do a Google search of your name and discover what you will find.
Short of your bank account number, many such searches will turn up a plethora of details about you and your life. As such, do you worry that some of those details should be kept private?
While safeguards have been put in place in some instances to protect consumers, there are still many ways companies (and individuals for that matter) can get to you.
So that you can better protect your privacy, remember a few pointers:
- Protection – First and foremost, do not give out your phone number or other such personal information to those you do not know. While it sounds rather simplistic, how many times have you been guilty of doing just that? You may think giving it out is not a big deal, but then that initial person you gave it to passes it along to others. Before you know it, you are getting unwanted calls, calls that could try to sell you stuff etc. Only give out your number if you truly feel it is worth it. Yes, if you are attempting to do personal or professional business with someone, providing your number makes more sense;
- Unlisted – One of the most popular features phone companies began offering years ago was unlisted numbers. In doing so, individuals could hide their actual numbers. Wanting to do so typically involved any number of reasons, notably to keep unwanted calls coming their way. In today’s advancing tech age, unlisted numbers may not prove quite as effective as they once were, but don’t be afraid to try and hide your number if you so choose;
- Internet – Lastly, are you quick to expose your personal information while surfing the worldwide web? If so, you are setting yourself up for potential trouble. Keep in mind that cyber criminals will go out of their way to find out information on you, information that could deplete you of your finances, lead to a home invasion etc. Just as businesses need to protect their privacy and that of their clients, you do too.
Think Before You Write
How many times have you been asked to fill out a questionnaire?
In many instances, people do this on a monthly basis, be it in-person or online. While this oftentimes proves harmless, you should always think before you start jotting down personal details. This is especially important when it comes to your children (especially younger ones old enough to fill out information or answer questions from people).
Lastly, it doesn’t hurt to leave a voice mail on your home/cell phone or phones, letting callers know that you do not respond to solicitations.
Stop for a moment to think about all the solicitations you likely get not only on the phone, but also at your residence. In many cases, homeowners or renters will put up a “no solicitation” notice on their doors etc. Doing the same in essence with your phone/s is a good idea.
So, how much time do you spend wondering who is on the other line when your phone goes off?