According to the latest data, scammers and telemarketers make 1,528 robocalls to Americans every single second. No wonder they’re driving us all crazy! Some of these calls are legitimate reminders about doctor’s appointments and payment plans, but around 55% of them are just nuisances — and we can’t rely on the government to stop them. If you’re sick of hearing about “your car’s extended warranty” or the “student loans” you paid off 40 years ago, try these five tips to cut down on robocalls and outwit scammers. 1. Explore your carrier’s free tools. AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon all offer services to cut down on scam calls. Some of them are free and/or come with your phone, but others you have to pay for or activate. If you have Verizon, for example, you can download the “Verizon Call Filter” app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Visit your carrier’s website or call them to learn about the tools they offer. 2. Download an ad blocker. For extra protection, you can download a separate ad blocker from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Hiya is a free app that will give you caller ID and block spam calls, and 5 WAYS TO DEAL WITH ANNOYING ROBOCALLS PROTECT YOUR IDENTITY AND KICK SCAMMERS TO THE CURB
Nomorobo is an award-winning option that’s free for landlines and costs $1.99 per month for cellphones.
3. When in doubt, let it ring out. If you don’t recognize the number calling, don’t answer. You can always call back if they leave a legitimate voicemail. 4. Suspect spam? Hang up. So, you accidentally answered a spam call. Whether it’s a person or a robot on the line, hang up immediately! Even saying your name or the word “yes” could set you up for identity theft. 5. Handle voicemails with care. If you get a suspicious voicemail, never call the number or visit the website given by the caller. Instead, Google the company or agency they claimed to be with and call that number. If the real agency has no idea about the call, you’ve just escaped a trap. By taking all five of these steps, you can protect yourself and your wallet from Ponzi schemes, identity thieves, and annoying telemarketers. For even more specific advice, visit AARP.com and search “The Definitive Guide to Reducing Robocalls.”
MEET DAVID BIDNER
Hi, my name is David Bidner, I am a student at University of St. Augustine finishing up my last term to become a doctor of physical therapy. My career started when I decided to go back to school in the health field eight years go. I started off as a certified nursing assistant for two years while working as a certified personal trainer for the past eight years. I've interned at a sports performance facility, where I trained NFL and collegiate football players during their off seasons. I've always had a passion for living an active and healthy lifestyle. I grew up in Seattle, Washington, where I spent every weekend hiking, playing sports, paddle boarding, or rock climbing.
I've gotten to explore the world since I was 18 years old, creating memories with loved ones which is a big reason why I love helping others stay active. It allows people to do the things that make them happy. I want people to be able to go on walks, play with their children/ grandchildren, travel, or simply continue a hobby they once loved. Although my time is coming to an end as a student in April, I look forward to learning as much as I can here at North County Water and Sports Physical Therapy. I'm honored to be surrounded by amazing minds and people on my last rotation. I look forward to the rest of my time here in the clinic! David Bidner
www.waterpt.com 2
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator