If your phone number has been flagged as “Scam Likely,” you know how frustrating it can be. Calls from your number are likely getting blocked or ignored, impacting your communication. Here are seven actionable tips to prevent your number from being labeled as a scam.
Verify Your Business Listings
Ensure your phone number is correctly listed on your official business profiles. The main goal in avoiding scam likely calls is to maintain the credibility and trustworthiness of your phone number, ensuring that your calls are not misidentified as fraudulent or spam, which helps keep your communication channels open and effective. Inconsistent or outdated information can raise red flags. Regularly check and update your contact details across all platforms – Google My Business, Yelp, and other directories.
- Keep Listings Consistent: Make sure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across all directories. Discrepancies can confuse call verification systems and lead to your number being flagged. Regularly audit your listings to ensure accuracy.
- Update Information Promptly: Whenever you change your contact information, update it immediately across all platforms. Delays in updating can result in outdated details being flagged. Timely updates help maintain your number’s credibility.
Avoid Excessive Robocalls
Using automated calling systems excessively can lead to your number being flagged. If you use robocalls for marketing, ensure you comply with regulations and use reputable services. Overuse or misuse of these systems can harm your number’s reputation.
- Adhere to Regulations: Follow all local and national regulations regarding automated calls. This includes adhering to the Do Not Call list and providing an option to opt out of future communications. Compliance helps maintain your number’s legitimacy.
- Limit Call Frequency: Avoid making too many automated calls in a short period. High volume can be perceived as spammy behavior. Implement limits on the number of calls to reduce the risk of being flagged.
- Use Quality Services: Choose reputable robocall services with good compliance records. Services with a history of respecting regulations and ethical practices are less likely to contribute to your number being flagged. Verify the service provider’s reputation before using their services.
Encourage Positive Evaluation
Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews online. A high volume of positive feedback can improve your number’s credibility. Ensure you respond professionally to reviews, as this shows that your business is legitimate and engaged with customers.
- Request Reviews Strategically: Ask for reviews after a successful transaction or positive customer interaction. Timing your requests appropriately increases the likelihood of receiving positive feedback. Avoid aggressive review solicitation, which could appear suspicious.
- Respond to Negative Reviews: Address any negative reviews professionally and constructively. This shows potential clients that you are proactive and value customer feedback. Handling criticism well can enhance your business’s reputation.
- Monitor Review Platforms: Regularly check review platforms for any new feedback about your business. This helps you stay informed about your reputation and address any issues promptly. Keeping track of reviews also allows you to respond promptly.
Monitor Your Call Activity
Keep an eye on your call activity to spot any unusual patterns. If you notice a sudden spike in calls or complaints, investigate the cause. Unusual activity might indicate misuse of your number or unauthorized access.
- Analyze Call Patterns: Use analytics tools to monitor call volume and frequency. Identifying unusual spikes or patterns can help you detect potential issues early. Regular analysis can prevent your number from being flagged.
- Set Up Alerts: Configure alerts for abnormal call activity. Immediate notifications allow you to address potential issues before they escalate. Alerts help you maintain control over your phone number’s reputation.
- Review Call Logs: Regularly review your call logs for any irregularities. This includes checking for missed calls, high call volumes, or complaints. Reviewing logs helps you identify and address potential problems promptly.
Register with Call Blocking Services
Registering your number with call-blocking services can help prevent your number from being flagged. Many services offer registration options to improve the legitimacy of your calls. Check with your phone provider or industry-specific platforms for registration details.
- Verify Registration: Confirm that your number is properly registered with major call-blocking services. This includes services like Nomorobo and Call Protect. Verification ensures that your number is recognized as legitimate.
- Update Registration Regularly: Keep your registration information up to date. Changes in your business or contact details should be reflected in your registration. Regular updates help maintain your number’s standing.
- Utilize Caller ID Tools: Use tools that enhance caller ID information. Providing clear and accurate information helps recipients identify your number. Enhanced caller ID reduces the chances of being flagged as a scam.
Implement Proper Call Authentication
Call authentication technologies like STIR/SHAKEN are used to verify the legitimacy of calls. Implementing these technologies can help prevent your number from being misused and reduce the likelihood of being labeled as a scam.
- Adopt STIR/SHAKEN Protocols: Ensure your phone system is compliant with STIR/SHAKEN protocols. These protocols help verify the authenticity of your calls and protect against spoofing. Compliance demonstrates your commitment to secure communication.
- Work with Your Provider: Collaborate with your phone service provider to implement call authentication. Providers often offer guidance and support for integrating these technologies. Working together ensures effective implementation.
Educate Your Team
Ensure everyone in your organization understands the importance of proper communication practices. Train your team to follow best practices for calling and messaging to avoid actions that could negatively impact your number’s reputation.
- Conduct Regular Training: Provide ongoing training on best practices for communication. This includes guidelines for making calls, handling customer interactions, and managing sensitive information. Regular training ensures that all team members are up-to-date with best practices.
- Establish Clear Protocols: Create clear protocols for using phone systems and making calls. Ensure that all employees understand and follow these protocols to maintain consistency and professionalism. Clear guidelines help prevent issues that could affect your number’s reputation.
- Promote Best Practices: Encourage team members to follow best practices for call handling and customer communication. Share resources and tips to help them improve their skills. Promoting best practices contributes to maintaining a positive reputation for your number.
Maintaining a good reputation for your phone number requires consistent effort and vigilance. By following these tips – verifying business listings, managing call activity, and using proper authentication – you can protect your number from being labeled as a scam and ensure your calls are received as intended.