If you’ve ever received a phone call about an accident claim, you know how annoying it can be. These calls may be from real companies, but sometimes they come from scammers who are just trying to trick you. In this guide, we’ll show you how to stop these calls and protect yourself from fraud.
What Are Accident Claims Calls?
Accident claims calls are when companies contact you, offering to help you with a claim after an accident. They might promise to help you get compensation for injuries, car damage, or other losses. Some of these companies are real, but others are scams trying to get your personal information or money.
How to Tell If the Call Is Real or Fake
When you get an accident claims call, it’s important to know if it’s real or a scam. Here are some tips to help you figure it out:
1. Ask for the Company’s Name and Contact Information
A real company will give you their name, website, and phone number. If the caller refuses to share this information or seems unclear, it could be a scam.
2. Did You Sign Up for This Call?
If you didn’t fill out a form or give permission for them to contact you, the call might not be real. Legitimate companies will only call you if you’ve asked them to or signed up for their service.
3. Don’t Feel Pressured to Decide Quickly
Scammers often try to hurry you into making a quick decision. They might say, “You have to act now to get your compensation!” If you feel rushed, it’s probably a scam.
Steps to Stop Accident Claims Calls
If you’re tired of getting unwanted accident claims calls, follow these steps to stop them:
1. Register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS)
TPS is a free service that helps stop unwanted phone calls. By signing up, you can block marketing calls, including accident claims calls. It may take up to 28 days for TPS to work, but it can reduce the number of calls you get.
2. Use Call-Blocking Apps
Many smartphones have call-blocking features that can automatically block unwanted calls. You can also download apps that help prevent scam calls from getting through.
3. Block the Number
If you get repeated calls from the same number, block it. Most phones have a feature that lets you block numbers, so you don’t have to hear from the same caller again.
What to Do If Calls Keep Coming
Sometimes, even after you’ve signed up for TPS or blocked numbers, you might still get calls. Here’s what you can do:
1. Report the Call
If you keep getting scam calls, report them to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). The ICO can investigate and stop the company from calling you again. You can also report the call to Action Fraud, which helps protect people from scams.
2. Contact Your Phone Provider
Some phone companies can help you block scam calls. Call your provider to ask if they offer any services that can stop these unwanted calls.
3. Tell the Company to Stop Calling
If you do pick up the phone and realize it’s a scam, you can ask the caller to stop calling you. Tell them you don’t want any more calls, and that you’ll report them if they continue.
How to Protect Yourself from Accident Claims Scams
There are other ways you can protect yourself from scam calls:
1. Don’t Share Personal Information
Never share your personal details, like your bank account number or address, with someone you don’t know. Scammers often ask for this information to steal your money or identity.
2. Be Careful When Signing Up for Offers
If you fill out an online form or sign up for an offer, make sure you understand where your information is going. Some companies might sell your details to others, leading to more unwanted calls.
3. Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off about the call, trust your gut and hang up. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I stop all accident claims calls?
You can reduce the number of calls by signing up for the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) and blocking numbers. While you may not stop all calls, these steps can significantly reduce them.
Q2: What should I do if I get a scam call?
If you get a scam call, hang up immediately, block the number, and report it to ICO or Action Fraud.
Q3: How long does it take for TPS to stop the calls?
It can take up to 28 days for TPS to block unwanted calls, so be patient. If the calls continue after that, you can report them.
Q4: Are all accident claims calls scams?
No, not all accident claims calls are scams. Some companies are real and can help you with a claim, but you should always check the company’s details before agreeing to anything.
Conclusion
Unwanted accident claims phone calls can be annoying and sometimes even dangerous. But by following the steps in this guide, you can protect yourself from scams and stop these calls from bothering you. Sign up for TPS, use call-blocking apps, and always trust your instincts. With a little effort, you can reduce the number of unwanted calls and keep your personal information safe.
