It is not uncommon in Hong Kong to receive several junk/marketing calls per week, or even per day. Following the tips below will reduce them to zero.
Gov’t Registry: Add your number to the government ‘Do Not Call’ registry by calling 1835000 from the number you wish to register. It is an automated process and will prevent pre-recorded ‘robocalls’ only. It is also meant to block junk faxes. Check the status of your number on their website.
Call filter: Install StudioKuma call filter on your Android device – it will block all telemarketing calls. There are options for other phones on the HK Junk Calls website, which also acts as a user-led database of numbers. Several apps match incoming calls to their blacklists and whitelists, silencing and/or dropping dodgy calls. Most of the apps can be set to notify the user of the blocked call and report what kind of caller it was.
Below is a comparison table detailing the features of each app (translated by Redditor ‘WheelOfFire’ (click to enlarge).
The site keeps track of all kinds of unsolicited callers such as loan companies, beauticians and marketers, as well as known fraudsters like pyramid sellers and fake bank call scammers. You can use it to search for numbers (click to enlarge).
Whatsapp: Whatsapp can be configured only to receive messages from people in your address book. However, this can be problematic when-and-if someone changes their number.
Avoid: Avoid giving your real number when registering with unimportant or untrusted companies and websites.
Being harassed? If an entity has failed to delete your data or misused your information, contact the Privacy Commissioner. If you are being constantly harrassed by a particular company, contact the Communications Authority. If you have been defrauded or misled by a company, approach the Consumer Council. Or, if you are feeling threatened by an individual or company, contact the police. Use a call recorder app on your phone if you need to retain evidence.
Click here for a full list of useful links for expats. Other tips for foreigners residing in HK…
- Accessing iPlayer from Abroad.
- Cheapest Books Delivered to HK.
- Cheapest Mobiles: Top 4 Places.
- China Visa – How to Apply.
- Comprehensive Map of HK Markets & Hidden Malls.
- Escaping HSBC: HK’s Alternative & Least Worst Banking Options.
- Flat-Hunting Guide and Links.
- Flight Tips and Links.
- How to Bypass the South China Morning Post Paywall.
- Local Job Hunting Links.
- Navigating HSBC’s New ATM Card Farce.
- Teaching Work in Hong Kong.
- Surprise! Loyal HSBC Customers Who Remained With Bank Screwed Again.
Here’s what I do.
I don’t answer any calls that:
– don’t show the calling number
– are from a phone number not in my contacts
There.
No need to install anything, no need to subscribe to any government service. Just peace and quiet.
If it was an important phone call, they can leave a message and I’ll call them back.
Here’s what I do.
I don’t answer any calls that:
– don’t show the calling number
– are from a phone number not in my contacts
There.
No need to install anything, no need to subscribe to any government service. Just peace and quiet.
If it was an important phone call, they can leave a message and I’ll call them back.
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Seems the phone app’s now called Call Defender
I have used, found it helpful; may install on new phone too.