Harassed by cold calling? Here is the foolproof method to regain your peace of mind

How can you effectively protect yourself against canvassing?

We've all tried the “hang up on you” method, but let's face it, it doesn't work that well. I personally noticed that every time I hung up suddenly, the calls kept coming back. The key, in fact, is to remain calm and polite. By showing a minimum of courtesy, you reduce your chances of ending up on the call center “to call back” list again. This may seem counterintuitive, but it often works better.

For those who prefer to take the lead, it is possible to register on the Bloctel list, supposed to protect against these unwanted calls. Even if its effectiveness is questionable, it is always a first step to consider. In the event of non-compliance, direct sellers risk a fine of up to 75,000 euros for individuals and 375,000 euros for businesses. The rules are clear: calls can only be made during the week between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., then from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. On weekends and public holidays, it is prohibited. If you receive a call outside of these hours, know that you are right not to pick up.

Tips to avoid telephone harassment

Another way to guard against these calls is to check the telephone area codes. The government has set up specific codes for canvassing companies, such as 0162, 0270, or even 0377 for mainland France. Personally, as soon as I see a number starting with these prefixes, I don't even bother to pick up and I block it directly. This saves me a lot of trouble.

Another solution, a little more technological this time, is to turn to applications like Orange Telephone. This app allows you to filter calls and automatically block numbers identified as suspicious by a large community of users. Think of it as a collective shield: every time a user reports a number, it benefits the entire community. For me, it's a bit like having a digital bodyguard watching over my phone.

Finally find peace

Cold calling is a real scourge, but there are solutions to deal with it effectively. Whether by using applications, registering your number on Bloctel or learning to recognize suspicious codes, everyone can find the method that suits them best. And above all, remember: courtesy is often more disarming for a call center advisor than anger.

And you, what are your tips for avoiding unwanted calls? Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and advice in the comments, to create a real community of resistance fighters against canvassing!