Unwanted scam calls, often labeled as "Scam Likely," are a persistent nuisance for many mobile users in the United States. These calls can range from fraudulent schemes to intrusive telemarketing, disrupting daily life and potentially compromising personal information. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies and applications available to help block these unwanted calls.
What Are "Scam Likely" Calls?
"Scam Likely" is a label used by mobile carriers to identify incoming calls that are suspected to be fraudulent or spam. This designation is based on various factors, including call patterns, known scam numbers, and user reports. While the label serves as a warning, it doesn't guarantee that the call is malicious, leading to potential false positives.
How Can I Block Scam Calls on My Phone?
Blocking scam calls can be achieved through a combination of built-in phone features, carrier services, and third-party applications.
Built-in Phone Features
iPhone Users:
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Silence Unknown Callers: This feature silences calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent calls, or Siri Suggestions. To activate:
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Go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers.
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Ask for Reason: Introduced in iOS 26, this feature prompts unknown callers to state their name and reason for calling, which is transcribed and displayed to you. To enable:
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Navigate to Settings > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification > Ask for Reason.
Android Users:
- Caller ID & Spam Protection: Many Android devices offer built-in spam protection. To activate:
- Open the Phone app > tap the three dots > Settings > Caller ID & Spam.
Carrier Services
Major US carriers provide services to help block scam calls:
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AT&T: Offers Call Protect, which displays a "V" for verified calls and blocks potentially fraudulent ones. To activate:
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Visit your AT&T account online and navigate to Phone Features > Call Protect.
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T-Mobile: Provides Scam Shield, which includes Scam ID and Scam Block. To activate:
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Dial #ONI# (#664#) for Scam ID.
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Dial #ONB# (#662#) for Scam Block.
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Verizon: Offers Call Filter, which identifies spam and blocks high-risk calls. To activate:
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Open the Call Filter app and follow the prompts.
Third-Party Applications
Several apps are designed to detect and block scam calls:
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Robokiller: Utilizes technology to detect scam calls with an answer bot, giving scammers a taste of their own medicine. The service costs $4.99 per month or $39.99 per year. (parade.com)
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Truecaller: Offers caller ID and scam blocking features. The free version includes ads and basic caller ID, while the premium version ($2.99/month) removes ads and adds advanced blocking features. (claritycheck.com)
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Hiya: Provides spam detection and call blocking, with a free version offering basic features and a premium version ($2.99/month) for enhanced protection. (claritycheck.com)
How Effective Are These Methods?
While no solution guarantees 100% protection, combining multiple methods can significantly reduce unwanted calls. For instance, using a third-party app alongside your carrier's services can enhance detection and blocking capabilities. It's also advisable to keep your phone's software updated and be cautious about sharing your number publicly.
Are There Any Privacy Concerns?
Some third-party apps require access to your contacts and call logs to function effectively. It's essential to review the app's privacy policy and understand how your data will be used. Opting for apps with transparent data practices and positive user reviews can help mitigate potential privacy issues.
Conclusion
Blocking scam likely calls involves a combination of utilizing built-in phone features, carrier services, and third-party applications. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of unwanted and potentially harmful calls you receive.
Highlights:
- Say goodbye to spam calls - NordVPN launches new spam call protection, Published on Tuesday, July 29
- Your Android phone could soon get a better way to sniff out spoofed calls, Published on Thursday, April 16
- I haven't answered a scam call in months - this hidden iPhone feature is why, Published on Wednesday, March 18
