Dealing with scam calls can be frustrating and time-consuming. Fortunately, there are several methods to help you avoid answering these unwanted calls.
Built-in Features on Your Phone
For iPhone Users:
- Silence Unknown Callers: This feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent outgoing calls, or Siri Suggestions directly to voicemail without ringing. To enable it:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Phone.
- Toggle on Silence Unknown Callers.
This method effectively reduces interruptions from unknown numbers. (techradar.com)
For Android Users:
- Caller ID & Spam Protection: Many Android devices offer built-in spam protection. To activate it:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three-dot menu icon and select Settings.
- Go to Caller ID & Spam.
- Toggle on See caller ID & spam and Filter spam calls.
This feature warns you about potential spam calls before you answer. (android.com)
Third-Party Apps
If you're looking for more comprehensive protection, third-party apps can provide additional features:
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Robokiller: This app uses a global database of analyzed calls and machine learning to identify and block spam calls before they reach you. It also offers "Answer Bots" to engage spam callers, wasting their time and reducing future calls. (mcafee.com)
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Truecaller: Offers spam call identification and blocking, along with a community-based spam detection system. It provides both free and premium plans, with advanced features available in the premium version. (consumer.ftc.gov)
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Hiya: Provides spam and scam call blocking, along with caller ID and call reason display. It offers both free and paid features, with enhanced blocking capabilities in the paid version. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Carrier Services
Many mobile carriers offer services to help block scam calls:
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Verizon: Offers Call Filter, which identifies and blocks potential spam calls.
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AT&T: Provides ActiveArmor, a service that blocks spam and robocalls.
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T-Mobile: Offers Scam Shield, which identifies and blocks scam calls.
These services may require additional fees or subscriptions.
Additional Tips
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Do Not Answer Unknown Numbers: If you don't recognize the number, let it go to voicemail.
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Don't Engage with Scammers: If you do answer a suspicious call, hang up immediately. Engaging can lead to more scam calls.
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Report Scam Calls: In the U.S., you can report unwanted calls to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through their website. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Conclusion
By utilizing your phone's built-in features, third-party apps, and carrier services, you can significantly reduce the number of scam calls you receive. Combining these methods will provide the best protection against unwanted calls.
Highlights:
- Tired of Unwanted Calls? Here's How to Help Thwart the Robocaller Invasion, Published on Friday, March 06
- Android now warns before you open banking apps during risky calls, Published on Wednesday, December 03
- I haven't answered a scam call in months - this hidden iPhone feature is why, Published on Wednesday, March 18
