A study conducted by Fonecta in Finland highlights the reluctance of many people to answer calls from unknown numbers, showing that only 29% of Finns consistently pick up such calls. The research indicates that 62% will answer if they are expecting a call, while 9% never respond to unknown numbers. This reluctance is more pronounced among older demographics, particularly those over 55, with 14% of them stating they never answer such calls.

The study compared the answering habits to previous findings from 2024, revealing that older adults, particularly those aged 55–64, are less likely to answer calls from unknown numbers, even when they anticipate a call. This decline in willingness may be linked to the rise of scam calls, which predominantly target older age groups. Additionally, the willingness of individuals over 65 to answer calls has significantly decreased, highlighting a growing issue with trust in telecommunications among these customers.

In contrast, the younger population appears to have become more open to answering unknown calls, indicating a generational divide in response to unidentified numbers. The overall trend suggests a growing hesitance among older individuals to engage with telecommunication, underscoring the challenges that unknown callers face when attempting to reach potential contacts, particularly within vulnerable age groups.