Receiving fake local calls can be a significant nuisance, often leading to scams or unwanted solicitations. Fortunately, there are effective strategies and applications available to help you block these calls and protect your privacy.
Why Are Fake Local Calls So Common?
Scammers frequently use local numbers to disguise their identity, making it more likely that recipients will answer the call. This tactic, known as "neighbor spoofing," exploits the tendency of individuals to trust calls from familiar area codes. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that in 2024, Americans received over 50 billion robocalls, many of which employed this deceptive method. (whocalledus.net)
How Can I Block Fake Local Calls on My Mobile Phone?
Blocking fake local calls involves a combination of built-in phone features, carrier services, and third-party applications. Here's how you can implement each:
Built-in Phone Features
For iPhone Users:
- Silence Unknown Callers: This feature silences calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent calls, or Siri suggestions. To activate:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Phone.
- Toggle on Silence Unknown Callers.
For Android Users:
- Google Phone App Spam Protection: Many Android devices come with built-in spam protection through the Google Phone app. To enable:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three-dot menu and select Settings.
- Tap Caller ID & Spam.
- Enable See caller & spam ID and Filter spam calls.
Carrier Services
Major U.S. carriers offer services to help block spam calls:
- AT&T: Provides Call Protect, which identifies and blocks potential spam calls. To activate:
- Visit your myAT&T account.
- Navigate to Phone Features and select Call Protect.
- Follow the prompts to enable the service. (consumerreports.org)
-
T-Mobile: Offers Scam ID and Scam Block. To activate:
-
Scam ID: Dial
#ONI#(#664#) and press the call button. -
Scam Block: Dial
#ONB#(#662#) and press the call button. (consumerreports.org) -
Verizon: Provides Call Filter. To activate:
- Open the Call Filter app.
- Tap Account > Subscription Status > Subscribe Now. (consumerreports.org)
Third-Party Applications
Several apps are designed to identify and block spam calls:
-
Robokiller: Blocks 99% of robocalls and uses AI "Answer Bots" to waste scammers' time. (whocalledus.net)
-
Truecaller: Utilizes a large database to identify and block spam calls. (fone.tips)
-
Hiya: Offers spam detection and call blocking features. (rahsha.in)
How Do These Apps Compare?
When evaluating call-blocking apps, consider the following factors:
- Database Size: A larger database increases the accuracy of spam detection.
- User Privacy: Ensure the app respects your privacy and does not misuse your data.
- Additional Features: Some apps offer features like reverse phone lookup or community reporting.
Robokiller stands out by blocking 99% of robocalls and using AI "Answer Bots" to waste scammers' time, providing a unique approach to combating spam calls. (whocalledus.net)
Are There Any Free Options Available?
Yes, several free options are available:
-
Hiya: Offers a free version with basic spam detection and call blocking. (rahsha.in)
-
Truecaller: Provides a free version with basic features, though it includes ads. (fone.tips)
How Effective Are These Methods?
While no method guarantees 100% protection, combining built-in features, carrier services, and reputable third-party apps significantly reduces the number of spam calls you receive. Regularly updating your apps and services ensures you benefit from the latest spam detection technologies.
Conclusion
Blocking fake local calls requires a multifaceted approach, utilizing your phone's built-in features, carrier services, and third-party applications. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce unwanted calls and enhance your mobile experience.
Highlights:
- Say goodbye to spam calls - NordVPN launches new spam call protection, Published on Tuesday, July 29
- Android now warns before you open banking apps during risky calls, Published on Wednesday, December 03
