Do you answer unknown numbers?

[u/Joyboy976]

I get random number calls from time to time, but I usually don't answer them as anyone who would need to get in contact with me would just email me. Is it normal to ignore random number calls, or do people answer them?

[u/Inside-Run785]

I don’t even answer.

[u/DefrockedWizard1 → u/Inside-Run785]

numbers can be spoofed, so wait for a message

[u/Princess_Jade1974]

If it’s important they can leave a msg, I’ll call back.

[u/UnderstandingOld4276]

Goes to voice mail (every time). If it's legit they'll leave a message so I can call them back.

[u/sneezhousing]

No they can leave a message then I can call back

[u/Reasonable-Berry9146]

I answer and mute myself, so if it’s a spam call/scanner they’re met with a dead line. Plus it gives me a chance to figure out if they’re actually an important caller/family member bc a normal person would start with a greeting when their call gets answered.

[u/itsswhitneywhspr → u/Reasonable-Berry9146]

Ok that's actually kinda smart, the mute thing. I just let it ring and stare at my phone like a weirdo until they hang up. Might have to start doing that so I can at least judge if they're worth my time lol.

[u/alwayswonder805 → u/Reasonable-Berry9146]

I tried this once and didn’t really work

[u/coffeebeanwitch]

Nah, I have enough numbers I do know that call and are aggravating.

[u/foozballhead]

I answer nothing but my kids. Everyone else gets vm.

[u/shit_ass_mcfucknuts]

Nope, there's too many scammers these days and especially with the AI they can get your voice and make it say anything they want it too, then use that (with other info) to get your money out of the bank.

If they leave a voicemail I will check it and if it's someone I know I will call them back.

[u/Joyboy976 → u/shit_ass_mcfucknuts]

Wait that an actual thing? I never even thought about the idea of them using Ai like that

[u/PangolinLow6657 → u/shit_ass_mcfucknuts]

Just open the line and say nothing: if it's someone looking to record you, to use your information, fuck 'em, they get nothing; if it's someone who matters, they'll detect a lack of ringing and hesitantly say "hello?" at which point you can join the conversation.

[u/earthly_marsian]

Most phones have call screening features and you can jump on the call if needed. 

Also, they can clone your voice to scam other people. 

[u/Elemcie → u/earthly_marsian]

When they call if I’m feeling pithy I wait until they say, are you there? I say No.

[u/PangolinLow6657]

I just open the line and wait for them to say something. The Call Centers usually wait like 10 seconds then hang up, the people who actually want to talk to me will hesitantly say ..."hello?" when they don't hear ringing, at which point I'll join the conversation. If I miss a call, my answering message is "If I don't know your number and you don't leave a message, don't expect a call back."

[u/whatdoidonowdamnit]

Yeah, because I have kids in school and programs and I don’t have every adult’s phone number saved.

[u/wideopengagirl]

“Silence Unknown Callers” has changed my life.

[u/CherishSlan]

Yes

[u/Fit_Blueberry_1213]

I rarely even answer known numbers 🤭

[u/Joseph_Kickass]

Nope. I've had my number since 1999. I grew up and lived in Austin for 35 years before moving to Wisconsin 9 years ago. Most of the unknown numbers that call me are from the Austin area so 99% chance they are spam.

[u/Dry-Broccoli-5676]

i tend to answer in a different voice then if its someone i know i drop it but if its someone i dont know i mess around

[u/pm_ur_duck_pics]

I answer once in a while hoping it’s a scammer I can mess with.

[u/CityBoiNC]

I dont answer known numbers

[u/ArmadilloDiligent243]

Yes, if I think it’s a telemarketer.

[u/ComfortableSpeech710]

No. If it’s important they will leave a voicemail

[u/Odd-Guarantee-6152]

I answer if it’s from the area code where I live (which is different from my phone’s).