Robocalls reach record levels
A recent FOX 5 Atlanta interview featured YouMail CEO Alex Quilici discussing why Americans are receiving roughly 2.5 billion robocalls every month, marking the highest volume in six years. The problem is especially bad in Georgia, which ranks among the top states for scam and telemarketing calls.
What’s driving the rise
According to Quilici, two main factors are fueling the increase. First, uncontrolled telemarketing and debt-relief campaigns continue to flood phone networks. Second, the pace of government enforcement has slowed, allowing scammers to operate longer before being shut down. Without consistent carrier enforcement, unwanted calls remain rampant.
The growing role of AI
Scammers are increasingly using artificial intelligence to create polished messages, realistic emails, and even cloned voices. This technology helps them appear legitimate, making it harder for consumers to spot a scam. Quilici warned that AI-driven “voice cloning” could soon target ordinary individuals, not just public figures.
Why Atlanta is a hotspot
Atlanta ranks high for robocalls because scammers know that southerners tend to answer calls more often. Economic pressures also make residents more likely to receive (and respond to) debt-related scam calls. It’s a dangerous combination that has made the city a key target for fraudsters.
How to stay protected
Quilici emphasized three steps: install a reliable call-blocking app like YouMail, research unknown callers before answering, and avoid clicking links or calling back numbers from suspicious messages. These small precautions can drastically reduce exposure to scams.
The bottom line
While regulators work to make large-scale robocall operations more expensive and less profitable, individual vigilance is still the first line of defense. Using technology like YouMail and pausing before reacting to unexpected calls or texts remains the most effective way to stay safe.
