I'm trying to run a business in the UK England and I'm getting stupid
sales calls more-or-less everyday (wanting me to advertise).
What I need to know is - how can I block these calls completely
(preferably without the phone even ringing).
I notice that most cold callers disguise their number. Is there any
way of blocking calls that disguise their number. I know it's possible
to have a caller display to display the incoming number - but i want
to block these calls completely.
Any ideas?

Ryan Brown

something similiar to http://www.kputel.com/Services/anncallrej.htm
would be your best bet. most us phone companies at least offer
similiar services, I would assume uk ones would too (although haven't
checked yet)

The first thing to do, is to register with the Telephone Preference
Service (TPS) on 0171 766 4420.

Only companies that are licensed with TPS are allowed to promote their
products by phone.

It takes 28 days to cut in but then it is UNLAWFUL for anyone to make
unsolicited calls to you.

If, in future, you do get an unsolicited call, you tell the caller
that you are registered with TPS and, if that doesn't shut them up,
ask for their name and number (with a view to reporting them). There
are HEAVY fines.

There may still be some persistent callers who withhold their number
and the way to deal with these is by 'blocking'.

The service costs £10 pm from BT and this enables you to block up to
10 numbers. This is how it works: After you get a nuisance call, you
enter a blocking code and that number (whether withheld or not) will
not be able to call you again.

Good luck!

Bryan

Oops ....

Of course, the 071 numbers have now been replaced by 0207!

Thanks I will probably try this.
Would registering with TPS be any good though?
Realistically - would this stop the majority of
companies/sharks/cowboys (delete if applicable)who are disguising
their number?
Or to put it another way - is the reason companies can get away with
so many unsolicited exasperspiel - because they have disguised there
caller identity?

thanks
Ryan

To Ryan from Bryan

TPS DOES work ... I know I use it.

Telephone Blocking also works, and I have used that, too.

Give them both a go: they will certainly reduce the volume of
unsolicited sales calls.

Eliminate them altogether? Well, no.

From Bryan to Ryan