How to Block Scam Calls on Your Verizon iPhone

Receiving scam calls on your Verizon iPhone can be both frustrating and time-consuming. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to minimize or eliminate these unwanted interruptions.

What Built-in Features Can Help Block Scam Calls on My iPhone?

Apple's iOS offers several features designed to help users manage and block unwanted calls:

• Silence Unknown Callers: This feature automatically silences calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent calls, or Siri Suggestions. The calls are sent directly to voicemail, and you can review them later. To enable this:

1. Go to Settings > Phone.
2. Toggle on Silence Unknown Callers.

• Ask Reason for Calling: Introduced in iOS 26, this feature prompts unknown callers to state their name and reason for calling before your phone rings. This allows you to screen calls effectively. To activate it:

1. Navigate to Settings > Phone > Screen Unknown Callers.
2. Select Ask Reason for Calling.

These features can significantly reduce the number of scam calls you receive. (tomsguide.com)

How Does Verizon's Call Filter Service Work?

Verizon offers a service called Call Filter to help identify and block spam calls:

• Call Filter: This free service alerts you to suspected spam calls and allows you to report numbers as spam. It also offers filters to block other unwanted callers, such as robocalls. To use Call Filter:

1. Download the Verizon Call Filter app from the App Store.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the service.

For enhanced features, Verizon offers Call Filter Plus for $3.99 per month, which includes Caller ID and the ability to block entire neighborhoods. (apps.apple.com)

What Are the Limitations of Verizon's Call Filter?

While Verizon's Call Filter provides basic spam call protection, it may not be as comprehensive as some third-party applications. For instance, it may not block all robocalls or provide detailed information about the caller.

How Does Robokiller Compare to Verizon's Call Filter?

Robokiller is a third-party app designed to block spam calls and texts:

• Advanced Call Blocking: Robokiller uses AI-powered audio fingerprinting technology to analyze and block unrecognized calls, effectively stopping up to 99% of spam calls. (apps.apple.com)

• Answer Bots: This unique feature sends spam callers to recorded messages, wasting their time and providing you with the last laugh. (robokiller.com)

• Spam Text Blocking: Robokiller also blocks 99% of spam text messages, keeping your inbox clean. (support.robokiller.com)

In comparison, Robokiller offers more comprehensive protection against spam calls and texts than Verizon's Call Filter.

How Do I Set Up Robokiller on My Verizon iPhone?

To install and configure Robokiller:

1. Download the Robokiller app from the App Store.
2. Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to set up your account.
3. Enable the necessary permissions for call and text blocking.
4. Customize your blocking preferences, including activating Answer Bots and setting up block/allow lists.

Once set up, Robokiller will automatically screen and block spam calls and texts, allowing you to enjoy a spam-free experience.

Are There Any Additional Tips to Avoid Scam Calls?

• Be Cautious with Unknown Numbers: If you receive a call from an unfamiliar number, let it go to voicemail. Legitimate callers will leave a message.
• Do Not Share Personal Information: Never provide personal or financial information over the phone unless you're certain of the caller's identity.
• Regularly Update Your Apps: Ensure that your call-blocking apps are updated to benefit from the latest features and improvements.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of scam calls you receive on your Verizon iPhone.

Highlights:

• I haven't answered a scam call in months - this hidden iPhone feature is why, Published on Wednesday, March 18