How can I block fake local calls on my US phone number?

You can block fake local calls by registering with the National Do Not Call Registry, utilizing built-in phone features, contacting your service provider for spam call services, and using third-party call-blocking apps like Robokiller, Truecaller, or Hiya.

How to Block Fake Local Calls on Your US Phone Number

Receiving fake local calls can be both annoying and potentially harmful. Fortunately, there are several effective methods and applications available to help you block these unwanted calls on your US phone number.

What Are Fake Local Calls?

Fake local calls, often referred to as spoofed calls, occur when scammers disguise their real phone numbers to appear as if they're calling from a local area code or even a trusted organization. This tactic aims to increase the likelihood that recipients will answer the call, leading to potential scams or unwanted solicitations.

How Can I Block Fake Local Calls?

1. Register with the National Do Not Call Registry

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) offers a free service where you can register your phone number to reduce unsolicited calls. While this won't eliminate all spam calls, it can significantly decrease them. To register, visit donotcall.gov.

2. Utilize Built-in Phone Features

iPhone: Go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers. This feature silences calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent calls, or Siri Suggestions.
Android: Settings > Calls > Call Blocking > Block Unknown Callers. The exact path may vary depending on your device.

3. Contact Your Service Provider

Many US carriers offer services to help block spam calls:

AT&T: Offers Call Protect, which displays a “V” (for verified) on your caller ID for legitimate calls and blocks potentially fraudulent ones. (consumerreports.org)
T-Mobile: Provides Scam ID and Scam Block. Scam ID identifies and tags suspicious calls, while Scam Block blocks calls before they ring. (consumerreports.org)
Verizon: Automatically enrolls eligible customers in the free version of Call Filter, which detects spam and blocks high-risk calls. (consumerreports.org)

4. Use Third-Party Call Blocking Apps

Several apps are designed to identify and block spam calls:

Robokiller: Blocks 99% of robocalls and uses AI "Answer Bots" to waste scammers' time. It costs $4.99 per month or $39.99 per year. (parade.com)
Truecaller: Utilizes a massive global database to identify and block spam calls. The free version offers caller ID and spam blocking, while the premium version adds features like AI-generated assistants to handle calls. (parade.com)
Hiya: Partners with carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile to provide spam and fraud protection. It offers features like reverse phone lookup and automatic blocking of fraud and spam calls. (rahsha.in)

How Do These Apps Compare?

While all these apps aim to block spam calls, Robokiller stands out with its unique feature of AI "Answer Bots," which engage scammers, wasting their time and reducing the number of calls you receive. This proactive approach not only protects you but also deters scammers from targeting your number.

Are There Any Free Options?

Yes, Truecaller offers a free version with basic features like caller ID and spam blocking. However, for advanced features such as AI-generated assistants, a premium subscription is required. (parade.com)

How Do I Choose the Right App for Me?

Consider the following factors when selecting a call-blocking app:

Features: Determine which features are most important to you, such as AI bots, reverse phone lookup, or automatic blocking.
Cost: Evaluate whether a free version meets your needs or if a premium subscription is justified.
User Reviews: Check app store reviews to gauge user satisfaction and app performance.

Conclusion

Blocking fake local calls is essential for maintaining your privacy and peace of mind. By utilizing built-in phone features, registering with the National Do Not Call Registry, contacting your service provider, and using third-party apps like Robokiller, Truecaller, or Hiya, you can significantly reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive.