When traveling on a vacation or a business trip, the last thing you don’t want is an unimportant call to disturb you. Throughout the day, you might receive calls from different marketers and other promoters.
However, there can be a potentially shady, unknown number calling you when traveling.
It can be concerning to get a call from a number you don’t know or recognize. There is also a possibility that criminals might use unknown numbers to conduct scams or get your personal data or private information.
This begs the question: What should you do when an unknown caller number calls you again and again when traveling?
To help you out, this article explores the potential privacy risks associated with unknown callers during travel.
Furthermore, it will also tell you the practical strategies to identify them and protect your information.
Identifying Unknown Callers: Tools and Techniques
Getting a call from unknown callers can make you feel anxious. Nevertheless, you have several tools and techniques at your disposal to identify unknown callers while traveling.
Let’s go over these methods through which you identify unknown callers.
- Caller ID Apps
One of the best ways to find out who is calling you is through using caller ID apps. Several free and paid apps can identify unknown caller numbers by searching them against databases of reported spam numbers.
These apps can also display the caller’s location, providing additional context. Some of the popular options include Truecaller, Hiya, and Showcaller. You can search on Google or Apple Store to find such apps.
- Reverse Phone Lookup Services
Online reverse phone lookup services allow you to enter an unknown number and search for its owner’s name and location. While not foolproof, this can give you a sense of the caller’s legitimacy. You can also dial *69 and *57 codes on your phone, which can be helpful in certain situations.
Dialing *69 will allow you to activate the last-call return service. Doing so will allow you to get an automated recording which will provide the relevant caller ID information. On the other hand, dialing the *57 code automatically traces the last call you received. It will also alert your service provider and local LEAs (Law enforcement agencies).
- Google or Social Media Search
A simple Google search of the phone number can sometimes reveal information about the caller, especially if it’s associated with a known scam. Look for online reviews or complaints mentioning the number. You can also search for the caller on different social media platforms.
If the caller ID shows a name, try searching for them on social media platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn.
This can help determine if the caller is a legitimate contact or someone associated with your travel arrangements (e.g., hotel, tour guide).
How to Respond to Unknown Calls While Traveling?
It can be difficult to decide what your next course of action would be when you’re getting a call from an unknown number when traveling.
You should stay calm and take the following measures to ensure proper dealing with the call from an unknown number.
- Don’t Answer Calls from Unknown Numbers
If you don’t recognize the number, it’s usually best not to answer. Scammers often rely on people picking up to engage in their tactics. Let the call go to voicemail and listen to the message before deciding whether to respond.
- Be Wary of Calls Asking for Personal Information
Legitimate businesses rarely request sensitive information like passwords or credit card details over the phone. If a caller asks for such information, it’s a red flag. You should also be careful when handing out basic information, such as name, number, etc.
- Don’t Engage with Suspicious Calls
Scammers will often try to pressure you into acting quickly or feeling threatened. They will create an act of urgency that you need to make decisions there and then. If that is the case, then you should end the call politely but firmly once the conversation starts feeling suspicious.
- Enable Do Not Disturb Mode
It is best to consider using Do Not Disturb mode during flights or when you know you’ll be out exploring to avoid unwanted calls and notifications. Furthermore, you should disable international roaming on your phone unless necessary. Doing so will allow you to avoid unexpected charges for receiving calls.
- Secure Your Phone and Beware of Public Wi-Fi
Last but not least, you need to have a strong password. Ensure your phone is protected by a strong passcode, fingerprint lock, or facial recognition to prevent unauthorized access if your phone gets lost or stolen. Also, avoid accessing sensitive information like bank accounts or credit card details while connected to public Wi-Fi.
Final Thoughts – Protecting Your Privacy and Hiding Your Number
Screening calls is vital to keep your personal information safe while protecting your privacy.
When traveling abroad, you might get calls from local businesses, such as your hotel or tour guide.
However, you shouldn’t pick up the phone from an unknown number until you have a clear idea of who is on the other side.
It is something highly important you need to do due the rise in spam and scam calls. You can follow the simple methods mentioned in this article that will allow you to find out who is calling you through the unknown number.
Furthermore, you should also take the right steps if you keep getting unknown calls while traveling.