How can I block fake local calls on my iPhone?

On iOS 26, use the 'Call Screening' feature by navigating to Settings > Phone > Call Screening, enabling 'Live Call Transcription,' 'Hold Assist,' and 'Voicemail Spam Reporting' to filter unwanted calls.

What is the 'Verified Caller' feature on Android?

Google's 'Verified Caller' is a system-level feature integrated into Android via Google Play Services, designed to combat spoofed calls by cross-checking incoming calls against a list of Do-Not-Originate numbers, potentially identifying spoofed calls before they reach users.

How to Block Fake Local Calls on Your US Phone Number

Receiving fake local calls can be both frustrating and potentially harmful. These calls often come from scammers using local numbers to gain your trust. Fortunately, there are several strategies and applications available to help you block these unwanted calls.

What Are Fake Local Calls?

Fake local calls, also known as spoofed calls, occur when scammers disguise their real phone numbers by using local area codes. This tactic aims to make the call appear familiar, increasing the likelihood that you'll answer. Once you pick up, they may attempt to solicit personal information or money.

How Can I Block Fake Local Calls on My Phone?

1. Utilize Built-in Phone Features

Both iPhone and Android devices offer native features to help filter and block unwanted calls:

iPhone: With iOS 26, Apple introduced "Call Screening," which acts as a virtual assistant for unknown callers. When an unknown number calls, your iPhone responds silently and requests the caller to state their name and the purpose of the call. This information is transcribed in real-time, allowing you to decide whether to answer, hang up, or send the call to voicemail. This feature is available on iPhone 11 and later models. (cincodias.elpais.com)
Android: Google is developing a system-level feature called "Verified Caller," which aims to combat spoofed calls. This feature will be integrated directly into Android via Google Play Services, providing protection across different phone apps. It targets the abuse of Do-Not-Originate (DNO) numbers, which are official numbers that should only receive calls. Scammers often spoof these numbers to appear credible. The "Verified Caller" feature will cross-check incoming calls against a list of DNO numbers, potentially identifying spoofed calls before they reach users. (androidcentral.com)

2. Enable Carrier Spam Protection Services

Major U.S. carriers offer built-in spam protection services:

AT&T: Offers Call Protect, which helps identify and block potential spam calls.
Verizon: Provides Call Filter, designed to detect and block spam calls.
T-Mobile: Features Scam Shield, aimed at protecting users from scam calls.

These services work at the network level, blocking flagged numbers before they even reach your device. To activate them, download the respective app from your carrier's website or app store and follow the setup instructions. (macobserver.com)

3. Install Third-Party Call Blocking Apps

For enhanced protection, consider third-party apps that specialize in blocking spam and robocalls:

Robokiller: Recognized as a top spam call blocker, Robokiller uses advanced algorithms to identify and block spam calls effectively. It boasts a high user rating and offers features like spam call blocking and text filtering. (appshunter.io)
Hiya: This app provides real-time caller ID and spam detection, leveraging a vast database to identify and block unwanted calls. It's known for its accuracy and user-friendly interface. (antivirus.com)
Truecaller: With a large user base, Truecaller offers caller ID, spam detection, and call recording features. It identifies unknown callers in real-time and flags known spam numbers. (antivirus.com)

4. Set Up Focus Mode to Silence Unknown Callers

Both iPhone and Android devices allow you to set up Focus Mode to silence calls from unknown numbers:

iPhone: Go to Settings > Focus > Phone, and select "Silence Calls From" to choose "All Contacts" or "Favorites." This will silence calls from numbers not in your contacts. (macobserver.com)
Android: Navigate to Settings > Sound & Vibration > Do Not Disturb > Calls, and select "From anyone" or "From contacts only." This will silence calls from unknown numbers.

5. Report Unwanted Calls

Reporting spam calls can help improve the accuracy of spam detection services:

iPhone: When you receive a spam call, tap "Info" next to the number, scroll down, and select "Block this Caller."
Android: Open the Phone app, tap the three-dot menu, go to "Settings," then "Caller ID & Spam," and enable "Caller ID & Spam" to report spam calls.

Conclusion

Blocking fake local calls requires a combination of utilizing built-in phone features, enabling carrier services, and considering third-party apps for enhanced protection. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of unwanted calls and safeguard your personal information.