Some of us may be unfortunate enough to have to get harrasing or obscene phonecalls. They can be annoying, or in extreme cases even traumatic, so it is crucial to deal with them in the proper manner.

The Harvard University Police Department some good advice on the matter at hand.

1. If you receive a call from a stranger, ask who is calling and the number the person is trying to reach. Do not give out your number or name to the caller or any personal information.
2. Hang up immediately if a caller does not respond when you answer, if the caller begins to use obscene language. Do not slam the receiver down, yell at the caller, or otherwise indicate that you are annoyed. Just hang up.
3. Don’t talk if the same caller phones again. Remember that all the caller wants is an audience. Don’t give the satisfaction of responding.
4. Consider calling the police and report annoying or obscene calls, particularly if you are threatened over the phone.

In a nutshell, you need to stay calm, stay private and don’t let the caller get to you. People like that just aren’t worth the trouble.