How to handle cold callers
Guide reference: HG-0011
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Approx. 2 min read
Politely stop sales calls and stay safe. You can say you are not interested and hang up. Register with TPS to reduce marketing calls, and never give personal...
Don't worry about being rude. You do not have to stay on the line with a sales caller, and you can end the call politely at any time.
Quick answer
You can say you are not interested and hang up. Register with TPS to reduce marketing calls, and never give personal details to cold callers.
More detail
Cold callers sell products or services you did not ask for. They may be polite but persistent. You owe them nothing and can end the call.
Never give bank details or online passwords to a sales caller. If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
Registering with the Telephone Preference Service reduces how many marketing calls you receive.
How to handle cold callers
Answer only if you want to. Let unknown numbers go to voicemail.
Say clearly: "I am not interested, please remove my number."
Hang up if the caller keeps talking or becomes pushy.
Do not agree to anything on the spot. Ask for information by post if you want time to think.
Register with the Telephone Preference Service at tpsonline.org.uk.
Report aggressive or suspicious sales calls to us or your local advice service.
Common mistakes
- Staying on the line out of politeness when you do not want to buy.
- Giving card details to claim a prize or free gift.
- Assuming a caller from a local area code must be genuine.
Things to know
- See Telephone Preference Service (TPS) for registration steps.
- See How to spot scam calls if the caller asks for money or passwords.
- Caller display and voicemail help you decide which phone calls to answer.
Frequently asked questions
Can I ask them to stop calling?
Yes. Tell them to remove your number and hang up.
What if they call back?
Hang up again. Note the date and report persistent callers.
Should I buy over the phone?
Only if you chose to call them. Never buy from an unexpected cold call.