Unwanted calls, including spam and robocalls, are a common nuisance for many smartphone users. These interruptions can disrupt daily life and pose potential security risks. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to reduce these calls and regain control over your phone.
What Are Unwanted Calls and Why Are They a Problem?
Unwanted calls encompass unsolicited telemarketing promotions, impersonation scams, and robocalls. These calls often use deceptive tactics, such as mimicking trusted entities like banks or government agencies, to steal personal information or money. The prevalence of these calls has increased significantly, making it essential to implement measures to block them. (mcafee.com)
How Can You Block Unwanted Calls on Your Smartphone?
For iPhone Users:
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Silence Unknown Callers: Navigate to Settings > Phone and enable "Silence Unknown Callers." This feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. (mcafee.com)
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Use Built-in Call Blocking: Open the Phone app, go to Recents, tap the information icon next to the number you wish to block, and select "Block this Caller." (mcafee.com)
For Android Users:
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Enable Spam Protection: Open the Phone app, tap the three-dot menu, go to Settings > Caller ID & Spam, and toggle on "See caller and spam ID." This will warn you about potential spam calls. (androidauthority.com)
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Block Specific Numbers: In the Phone app, go to Recents, press and hold the suspicious number, then choose "Block/report spam." (androidauthority.com)
Are There Carrier Services to Help Block Unwanted Calls?
Yes, many carriers offer services to help block unwanted calls:
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AT&T: Provides Call Protect, which identifies and blocks potential fraud calls. (consumerreports.org)
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T-Mobile: Offers Scam ID and Scam Block to identify and block scam calls. (consumerreports.org)
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Verizon: Provides Call Filter to detect and block spam calls. (consumerreports.org)
How Do Third-Party Apps Help in Blocking Unwanted Calls?
Third-party apps can enhance your phone's ability to block unwanted calls:
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Robokiller: Recognized as a market-leading solution, Robokiller offers real-time spam call blocking and has been praised for its effectiveness.
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Truecaller: Another popular app that identifies and blocks spam calls.
These apps maintain extensive databases of known spam numbers and can provide additional layers of protection. (mcafee.com)
What Are the Limitations of Built-in Features and Carrier Services?
While built-in features and carrier services are helpful, they may not block all unwanted calls. Some spam calls can still get through, especially if they use local numbers or spoofed caller IDs. Combining these methods with a reputable third-party app can offer more comprehensive protection. (mcafee.com)
How Can You Report Unwanted Calls?
Reporting unwanted calls can help authorities take action:
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Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Report unwanted calls to the FTC to support enforcement. (mcafee.com)
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National Do Not Call Registry: Register your number to reduce telemarketing calls. (mcafee.com)
What Are Some Additional Tips to Reduce Unwanted Calls?
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Be Cautious with Your Number: Limit sharing your phone number online and with untrusted sources.
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Do Not Engage with Spam Calls: Avoid answering or interacting with unknown numbers.
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Regularly Update Your Contact List: Ensure your contacts are up-to-date to help your phone's spam filters work more effectively.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce unwanted calls and enhance your phone's security.
Highlights:
- How to block spam calls on iPhone, Published on Saturday, August 23
