Let’s be real: getting a scam call or text can be super annoying. And sure, it might feel tempting to hit them back with a clever comeback or just flat-out tell them off. But here’s the thing—by responding at all, you’re giving them exactly what they want. Let’s break down why ignoring them is actually your best move.
Scammers Don’t Care About Your Comebacks
You might think you’re showing them who’s boss, but all scammers really want is proof that your number is active. They’re not looking for a conversation—they’re looking for confirmation. The second you reply, even if it’s just to say “stop,” they know they’ve got a real person on the other end. Now you’re on their radar, and here’s what they’ll do with that info:
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Your Number Gets “Flagged” as Active: Scammers are constantly testing numbers to see which ones are active. If you answer a scam call or respond to a text, it signals to them that your number is live. That’s a green light for scammers to keep targeting you.
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The Onslaught Begins: Once scammers know your number is active, they’re likely to share it with other scammers or put it on lists that circulate within scam networks. As a result, you might start receiving more spam and scam attempts—anything from “urgent” robocalls to fake messages about winning prizes or needing to “verify” account information.
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Your Data Could Be Sold: Scammers may even sell active numbers to other fraudsters who pay for verified numbers. This can lead to more scam calls from different numbers, all hoping to catch you off guard.
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Increased Risk of Identity Theft: If you answer a scam call or respond to a text, scammers may use social engineering techniques to gather more of your personal information. They might ask leading questions or gather voice samples, which could be used for voice-activated systems or other fraudulent purposes.
The Power of Silence
By not responding, you’re taking away what they want most—confirmation that your number is active. If they don’t get any reaction, they’re more likely to move on. Here’s what you should do instead:
- Hang Up or Block Right Away: Once you realize it’s a scam, don’t bother with any response. Just hang up or block the number.
- Don’t Text Back: Replying, even just to say “stop,” tells them your number is real. It’s better to delete the message and move on.
Leave It to the Pros
Now, if you’re a pro scam-baiter like Kitboga, then sure, waste their time all you want! But for most of us, engaging is only helping the scammers out.
Bottom Line: Don’t Give Them the Satisfaction
Every time you reply, you’re helping scammers confirm your number, making you a target for more scams. So, the next time you get a scam call or text, remember—your best move is to ignore, block, and delete. Scammers can’t work with silence, so let it be your best defense.
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