TIPS TO DEAL HARASSING, OBSCENE OR THREATENING PHONE CALLS
- Hang up if no one answers after your second “Hello.”
- Hang up quietly if you receive an obscene, threatening or harassing phone call. Do not respond. The subject is attempting to get some kind of response from you and will then probably give up or move on to someone else.
- Do not include your name or telephone number in the outgoing message on your answering machine.
- Do not give your name, address or personal information over the phone. Be careful when a caller says he/she is taking a survey. If you have any concern about the legitimacy of a survey, ask for the person’s name, organization’s name, and telephone number. Say that you will reply after you verify the authenticity of the survey.
- Do not play detective. Don’t extend the communication trying to figure out who the subject is. This or any type of reaction is exactly what the caller wants and needs.
- Keep cool. Don’t let the subject know you are upset or angry.
- Do not try to be clever. A witty response may be interpreted as a sign of encouragement.
- Do not try to be a counselor. The annoyance or obscene message originator certainly needs professional help, but he will only be encouraged by your concern and will continue the calls.
- Do not tell everyone about your messages. Messages of this type are sometimes made by acquaintances.
- Place classified ads with caution. When placing an ad in a newspaper, use a newspaper or post office box number if possible. If you must use your phone number, do not list your address. Annoyance callers are avid readers of the classified ads.
- Never volunteer your number to an unknown caller. This is an invitation to call again. If your number is the wrong number the caller does not need to know your number.
- If an obscene or harassing message is left on your answering machine, retain the tape for later use by law enforcement
- Contact the Office of Security and Public Safety if you continue to receive harassing on campus.
- Do not play detective. Don’t extend the communication trying to figure out who the subject is. This or any type of reaction is exactly what the caller wants and needs.
BEWARE – ALL OF THESE CAN BE FATAL!!!
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