In the News
Can the threat of spam calls be mitigated? In Apple is building a major defense against spam calls into iOS 13, Chris Welch at The Verge discusses the integration of a built-in spam blocker in Apple’s newest iOS update. Welch explains that once installed, your Apple device will send suspected spam calls to your voicemail, reducing the risk that you answer a call and feed the attacker useful personal information. Welch emphasizes that this service can be turned on or off, but suspects that most will utilize the feature.
Our Take
Spam calls can be more than an annoyance. The prey on victims by taking advantage of their emotions upon hearing alarming news or by tricking unsuspecting individuals into giving up personal information when it is not needed. Although there are many ways that individuals can protect themselves against spam callers, company initiatives to remove some of this stress from consumers is much appreciated. By utilizing its technology, Apple can deliver a service that can be highly beneficial in not interrupting the daily lives of its customers while also increasing their privacy and potential harm from spam callers. Although customers will have the option to use or not use the feature, the benefits seem to outweigh the negatives on this specific iOS update greatly.
Recommendations
How can you protect your personal information from spam callers?
- Understand the risks of putting your personal information into the world, and only share what you have to
- Refrain from answering calls from unknown and unfamiliar numbers
- Refrain from sharing financial and sensitive personal information over the phone
- Verify the contents of a voicemail in a separate browser before returning a missed call
- Check your email, financial accounts, and credit reports regularly for abnormal activities