Just received a call from this number, I declined the call on my cellphone and they left a message saying that they were calling from a loan company and said that I had applied for a loan.  I didn't apply for one, but they had my first name (which I don't ever use) and my cellphone number.

II have receive 30 phone call from this number 213-785-8821 and I'm tired of this I don't want nothing from them. One time it was a woman than a man, saying all kind of things. I also received 20 other from different numbers. Sometimes on my phone it shows unknown name, I have change my number and I don't know how they got my new number. Something need to be done about all these calls. I feel that this is harassing me. Please let me know if you are having the same problem.

Got the a voicemail from a man with a thick accent repeating saying my name but never truly left a message. Constantly getting calls for so-called loans I applied for that I did not do.

Got a call from man named steve wirh heavy accent. Did not answer.  Left voice mail saying my loan of $3000 had been approved.  I have necer applied for a loan. Going to get my cell phone number changed  

>> Going to get my cell phone number changed  <<

Not a good idea.
If you change numbers, your "new" number will be somebody else's old number ... and who knows what scammers' lists it may be on.

Instead, what options does one have to defend themselves against intrusive callers?

• The Do Not Call list (Federal or State)
Works, but is effective against ONLY "legitimate" telemarketers.  Political callers, surveys and some other callers are exempt.  Scammers ignore the DNC list.

• NoMoRobo
A system offered by some telephone providers, to help automatically block robocalls.  Google "nomorobo" to see if it works with your phone provider.

• Shouting, screaming, swearing at the caller
Nope.  Does not stop calls.  May make you hoarse, and will disturb nearby people.

• Call blocker app, device or service
Could be a good choice (even though the scammers can use fake phone numbers), and some apps are free!
Google "call blocker" for more information, or check your favorite online sales site for a list.
http://gg.gg/blockers
Your phone provider may also offer blocking services.  Check their web page for information.

If you cannot use any of the above defenses, then:
• Do not answer calls from unknown numbers ... let them go to voicemail or answering service
• Do NOT return calls from unknown numbers!  All that does is verify your phone number!  And, in some cases, those return calls may cost $20 or more to complete.  http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/one-ring-cel ... ing-your-wallet
• If you have a "dumb" cell phone, assign the scammer's number to a group named "scammers" (or similar).  Then, assign a silent ringtone to that group.