Answering unknown number calls on my cell phone like a receptionist really confuses scammers.

"Good afternoon, thanks for calling!"

"Hello."

"Hi, who's calling please?"

"This is Experian Security Services calling to discuss an urgent issue with your account."

"Who are you trying to reach?"

"I am looking to talk to the owner of this phone number."

"I'm sorry, I'll need a name to help you."

30 seconds of silence.

Call hangs up.

@vees
I always answer with “please be advised this is a recorded line, state your full name” in my best Robo voice. After a 5 second pause, I repeat the statement. This usually gets me off their phone lists for a solid six months.

On the off chance that it is someone I know with a new phone, they laugh and know that they’re speaking to me!

@grayladywriter @vees "This call is being recorded for quality and training purposes."