How to Stop People From Listening to My Cell Phone Conversations

Sometimes it may feel like you need to sit in the middle of the desert to have a private conversation.

Cell phones and people go together like peanut butter and jelly. Whether relaxing at home or riding a subway, we always have our cell phone nearby and sometimes it's necessary to take a call that may be sensitive in nature. Taking precautions to prevent eavesdropping is imperative to keeping conversations private.

Things You'll Need

• Cell phone
• Coat

Instructions

Leave the Room

1. Answer your cell phone when you hear the ring tone indicating an incoming call. Identify the caller and nature of the call. Determine if you prefer privacy for the subject matter that will be discussed.

2. Place the caller on hold. Let others in the room know you need to take an important call. Step out of the room and close the door behind you.

3. Move to an empty room or secluded nook. Scan the area to ensure no other people are within earshot. Return to your cell phone and proceed with the call. Speak in a quiet voice.

4. Keep a watch out for anyone who may be attempting to listen to your conversation. Move again if necessary.

Speak Quietly

1. Identify an incoming call by looking at the caller ID on your cell phone screen. Determine if you wish to accept the call, making note of your current location and the number of people in the near vicinity.

2. Scan for a private place to have your conversation. If no such places are available and you still wish to accept the call, answer the phone.

3. Inform your caller that you are not in a private location at this time. Ask if the call can be rescheduled to later date. Continue the call if you cannot agree on another time for the conversation.

4. Listen to the caller as she speaks. Position your body away from other individuals in the vicinity. Turn your head into your shoulder, holding the phone against your ear and next to your body. Respond in a quiet voice, just above a whisper. Repeat any information that is not heard by the caller. Consider placing a coat over your head for added privacy.

Tips & Warnings

• Schedule calls that are sensitive in nature for times where you will be at home or in a private location.

• Consider taking the private calls in your vehicle if applicable.

• Let the call go to voice mail and return the call when you are in a private setting.

• Ask others to leave the room or office when you need to take a call.

• If you and the caller speak another language fluently, consider speaking in that language during the conversation.

References

• BBC: Is Eavesdropping So Wrong