Receiving repeated local-looking calls can be both frustrating and concerning. These calls often originate from robocallers or scammers who manipulate caller IDs to appear local, increasing the likelihood of you answering. Fortunately, there are effective strategies and tools available to help you block these unwanted calls.
What Are Local-Looking Calls and Why Are They a Problem?
Local-looking calls display a caller ID with your area code and prefix, making them appear as if they're from someone nearby. This tactic is commonly used by robocallers and scammers to deceive individuals into answering, as people are more likely to pick up calls from local numbers. These calls can be persistent, leading to annoyance and potential security risks.
How Can I Block Local-Looking Calls on My Smartphone?
1. Utilize Built-in Features:
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iPhone Users: Enable the "Silence Unknown Callers" feature to automatically silence calls from numbers not in your contacts. (whocalledus.net)
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Android Users: Use the "Caller ID & Spam" feature to identify and block suspected spam calls. (whocalledus.net)
2. Install Call-Blocking Apps:
Several apps are designed to identify and block spam calls:
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RoboKiller: Blocks 99% of robocalls and offers AI-powered "Answer Bots" to waste scammers' time. (antivirus.com)
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Hiya: Provides real-time caller ID and blocks spam calls using a large database of known spam numbers. (antivirus.com)
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Truecaller: Identifies unknown callers and blocks spam calls using a community-driven database. (antivirus.com)
3. Carrier Services:
Many mobile carriers offer built-in spam protection:
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AT&T: Offers Call Protect, which displays a "V" for verified calls and blocks potentially fraudulent ones. (consumerreports.org)
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T-Mobile: Provides Scam ID and Scam Block to identify and block suspicious calls. (consumerreports.org)
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Verizon: Offers Call Filter to detect and block spam calls. (consumerreports.org)
How Does RoboKiller Stand Out Among Call-Blocking Apps?
RoboKiller is a market-leading solution that offers several advantages:
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High Block Rate: RoboKiller blocks 99% of robocalls, significantly reducing unwanted interruptions. (antivirus.com)
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AI-Powered Answer Bots: Engages scammers with humorous "Answer Bots," wasting their time and preventing them from targeting others. (antivirus.com)
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Customizable Filters: Allows users to tailor spam filters based on categories such as fraud, scam, and telemarketer. (antivirus.com)
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User-Friendly Interface: Designed for everyday users, RoboKiller offers an intuitive interface for easy management of call-blocking settings.
Are There Free Alternatives to RoboKiller?
Yes, there are free alternatives like Hiya and Truecaller that offer basic spam-blocking features. However, they may not provide the same level of protection or advanced features as RoboKiller. For instance, Hiya offers real-time caller ID and blocks spam calls using a large database of known spam numbers. (antivirus.com) Truecaller identifies unknown callers and blocks spam calls using a community-driven database. (antivirus.com)
How Do I Report Unwanted Calls?
Reporting unwanted calls helps authorities track and take action against scammers:
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Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Report unwanted calls to the FTC through their website.
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National Do Not Call Registry: Register your number to reduce telemarketing calls.
Conclusion
Dealing with repeated local-looking calls requires a combination of proactive measures and the use of effective tools. By utilizing built-in smartphone features, installing reputable call-blocking apps like RoboKiller, and leveraging carrier services, you can significantly reduce unwanted calls and protect your privacy.
Highlights:
- Tired of Unwanted Calls? Here's How to Help Thwart the Robocaller Invasion, Published on Friday, March 06
