How to Get Liberty University to Stop Calling: A Guide for the Perplexed and Harassed
Let’s be honest, you’re not alone. You’re staring at your phone, the screen illuminated with the dreaded “Liberty University” caller ID. It’s like a bad dream, a recurring nightmare of relentless phone calls, a persistent echo of your brief foray into the world of online education. You’ve tried everything: ignoring the calls, sending them to voicemail, even changing your number (a move that’s about as effective as trying to outrun a swarm of locusts).
But fear not, my fellow student-turned-ex-student! This is not a lost cause. You can reclaim your phone, your sanity, and your peace of mind. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and tactics to outsmart those Liberty University telemarketers and silence their persistent calls.
The “Do Not Call” Registry: Your First Line of Defense
Think of the “Do Not Call” Registry as your personal shield, a magical barrier that deflects unwanted telemarketing calls.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Register your phone number: This is the first step. Head over to the Federal Trade Commission’s Do Not Call Registry website and register your phone number. It’s like putting up a “No Soliciting” sign on your phone.
- Tell them you’re on the list: When Liberty University calls, politely inform them that you’re registered on the “Do Not Call” Registry and request that they remove your number from their calling list. You can even say something like, “I’m on the Do Not Call Registry. If you continue to call me, I will report you.” This might sound harsh, but it’s a necessary tactic to deter them.
- Report them if they persist: If they continue to call, take a screenshot of the caller ID, the date, and the time, and file a complaint on the “Do Not Call” Registry website. This will send a message to Liberty University that you’re serious about stopping their calls.
But wait, there’s more!
The “Do Not Call” Registry is a great starting point, but Liberty University is a force to be reckoned with. They seem to have a knack for finding new ways to contact you. So, we need to step up our game.
Additional Tactics to Silence the Calls
Think of these tactics as your arsenal, your secret weapons to defeat the onslaught of Liberty University calls.
- Block their numbers: Most phones allow you to block unwanted numbers. Go to your phone’s settings and block the numbers that keep calling you. This is a simple but effective way to prevent them from reaching you.
- Use call-screening apps: There are apps like YouMail, Truecaller, and Nomorobo that can help you screen and block unwanted calls. You can even customize how these apps handle calls, allowing you to choose whether to receive a notification, send the call straight to voicemail, or block the call entirely.
- “Text STOP to 24502 or 24515”: This is Liberty University’s official “unsubscribe” method. Send a text message to either of these numbers with the word “STOP” to opt out of their SMS services. This should stop the texts, but keep in mind that they might still call.
- Email them your request: You can also send an email to sms2@liberty.edu to unsubscribe from their SMS services. Be specific in your email and state that you wish to be removed from their calling list.
- Send a certified letter: This is a more drastic measure, but it can be effective. Get their mailing address (you can find it online) and send them a certified letter stating that unless they stop calling you, you will take legal action. This is a bit like sending a warning shot across their bow.
- Take advantage of their online communication channels: Their website contains information about their online degree programs and their support offices. You can access their online chat feature or contact their student services department through their website.
It’s important to note that Liberty University has been known to use multiple phone numbers to contact students. So, even if you block one number, they might call from another. The key is to be persistent. Keep reporting them, blocking their numbers, and using all the tactics at your disposal.
The “Why” Behind the Calls
You might wonder why Liberty University is so persistent in their pursuit of your attention.
- They want your money: Let’s face it, Liberty University is a business. Online education is big business, and they’re trying to increase their enrollment. They’re using aggressive marketing tactics, including phone calls, to reach potential students.
- They believe they have something to offer you: Liberty University’s marketing strategy is based on the idea that their programs are valuable and that you’ll be better off enrolling in their online programs. They might genuinely believe that they can help you achieve your academic and career goals.
- They are following their own set of rules: Just like any other university, Liberty has a set of policies and procedures for how they operate. Their marketing team may be following their own set of rules that include aggressive telemarketing practices.
The “What If” Scenario
What if you’ve tried everything and Liberty University continues to call?
- Document everything: Keep a record of every call they make, including the date, time, and any details of the conversation. This documentation will be helpful if you decide to take legal action.
- Contact the Better Business Bureau: The Better Business Bureau is a non-profit organization that helps consumers resolve disputes with businesses. You can file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau regarding Liberty University’s persistent calls.
- Contact the Federal Trade Commission: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is the agency that oversees the “Do Not Call” Registry. You can file a complaint with the FTC regarding Liberty University’s violation of the “Do Not Call” Registry.
- Consult an attorney: If you’re being harassed by Liberty University, you might want to consult with an attorney to discuss your legal options. An attorney can advise you on the best course of action.
The Final Word
Getting Liberty University to stop calling is a battle, but it’s a battle you can win. By using the tactics outlined in this guide, you can reclaim your phone, your sanity, and your peace of mind. Remember, you have rights, and you have the power to stop them from harassing you. Don’t let them win!
P.S. This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any questions about your rights or the legal options available to you, please consult with an attorney.