Our Community in Fairfax County, Virginia

Anyone can be the victim of annoying or harassing phone calls.  These may include random calls by pranksters or sales representatives that may be too forward or obtrusive.  Most can be prevented or avoided by using some simple techniques to decrease your chances of becoming a victim.

• Use your phone on your terms.  If the caller doesn't speak or if you simply don't feel comfortable talking to the caller, hang up.  You are not obligated to speak to anyone.


• Ask for the caller's identity or affiliation.  If the caller refuses, hang up.  Some "silent" callers are looking for a response and may want you to become scared or angry.  Don't give them the satisfaction.


• If the caller asks "Who is this?" or "What number have I reached?" don't answer.  Instead, ask "Whom do you want?" or "What number were you calling?" If the call is not legitimate, that will probably end it.


• Don't give out any information unless you positively recognize the voice.  Under no circumstances should you give the names of others living with you to someone who doesn't already know them.


• If you have children, instruct them not to talk to strangers on the phone.  Teach your children to ask for the caller's name and number so someone can return the call later.


• Other techniques that may be useful in some circumstances include blowing a police whistle into the phone or tapping the disconnect button and stating "Operator, this is the call I wanted traced."