From automated “energy rebate” scams to persistent sales pitches, unwanted calls can quickly turn your phone into a source of frustration. But did you know that robocalls and live telemarketing calls require different blocking methods?
A landline call blocker—such as the CPR Call Blocker—uses smart filtering to detect both types, keeping your home peaceful and scam-free.
What’s the Difference Between Robocalls and Live Telemarketers?
Before understanding how call blockers manage them, it’s helpful to know what sets these two types apart.
-
Robocalls: Automated systems that deliver pre-recorded messages, often used by scammers or illegal marketers.
-
Live telemarketers: Real people trying to sell products, services, or sometimes conducting surveys.
While robocalls are mostly illegal under UK law, live telemarketing calls are still permitted—but only when you haven’t opted out via the Telephone Preference Service (TPS).
Summary: Robocalls are automated and mostly illegal, while live telemarketers are human callers whose legitimacy depends on consumer consent.
How Do Landline Call Blockers Handle Robocalls?
Robocalls are often generated by auto-dialers that send out thousands of calls per hour. A good call blocker detects and intercepts them before they even ring.
Here’s how:
-
Pre-loaded scam number databases – Devices like CPR Call Blocker V100K include tens of thousands of known robocall numbers.
-
Instant hang-up detection – Many robocalls disconnect quickly if no one answers, a pattern recognised by advanced blockers.
-
Automated blocking algorithms – Identify frequent short-duration calls typical of auto-dialers.
-
Option to block withheld or international numbers – Most robocalls originate from abroad.
Once blocked, these calls never reach your handset.
Summary: Call blockers use number databases, pattern detection, and international filtering to automatically stop most robocalls before they ring.
How Do Landline Call Blockers Manage Live Telemarketers?
Live telemarketers can be trickier to identify since they’re real people using legitimate numbers. However, call blockers still offer several layers of defence:
-
One-touch manual blocking – You can instantly block a live telemarketer mid-call.
-
Caller ID screening – Block unfamiliar or withheld numbers automatically.
-
Custom whitelist options – Ensure trusted callers, like doctors or family, always get through.
-
Reporting feedback – Many devices share blocked call data with global scam databases.
If you’re registered with the TPS and still receive unwanted live marketing calls, it’s often a sign that the caller is breaching UK marketing laws.
Summary: Call blockers rely on manual blocking and caller ID to manage live telemarketers, allowing you to control who can reach you.
Why Do You Need Protection from Both Types?
Both robocalls and live telemarketing can be harmful in different ways:
-
Robocalls: Often scams impersonating HMRC or banks.
-
Telemarketers: Cause disruption and confusion, especially for elderly people.
-
Both: Can lead to stress, data exposure, or financial risk.
According to Ofcom, UK households still receive an average of 4 nuisance calls per week, with robocalls accounting for the majority.
Summary: Both robocalls and live telemarketers waste time, cause stress, and can expose users to scams.
How to Maximise Your Protection
-
Install a call blocker – Preferably pre-programmed with known scam databases.
-
Register with TPS – Reduces legitimate telemarketing calls.
-
Use Caller ID – Essential for identifying unfamiliar numbers.
-
Report illegal robocalls – Through Action Fraud.
-
Educate elderly relatives – Remind them never to share information by phone.
Summary: Combine call blockers, TPS registration, and awareness for total call protection.
Conclusion
Landline call blockers are your best defence against both automated robocalls and live telemarketers. Using intelligent filtering and user control, they stop scams before they start—keeping your home peaceful and protected.
Explore CPR Call Blocker to protect your loved ones today.
FAQs
Q: Can call blockers detect all robocalls automatically?
A: Most pre-programmed models block 90–95% of known robocall numbers instantly.
Q: Can I block live callers manually?
A: Yes, one-touch blocking lets you stop telemarketers mid-call.
Q: Are robocalls illegal in the UK?
A: Yes—unless you’ve given explicit consent to receive them.
Q: Who enforces nuisance call laws?
A: Ofcom and the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
