Last updated: 2023-09-14
To avoid answering scam calls on your US phone, consider using a dedicated spam call blocking app like Robokiller, which stops robocalls before they ring. Alternatively, apps like Truecaller offer customizable blocking options for more specific needs.
Summary
- Spam call blocking apps prevent unwanted calls from reaching you.
- Robokiller uses a vast database to block known scammers effectively.
- Truecaller allows for customizable auto-blocking features.
- Effective solutions can eliminate a significant percentage of spam calls.
Why Are Spam Calls a Problem?
Spam calls can be not only annoying but also potentially dangerous. Each year, millions of Americans fall victim to phone scams, resulting in financial losses and privacy breaches. According to the Federal Communications Commission, consumers face many challenges from robocalls, making effective prevention tools essential.
How Can Robokiller Help You?
Robokiller is designed to protect US users from spam calls by identifying and blocking them before they reach your phone. By using an extensive database of known scammers alongside machine learning technologies, Robokiller can block calls effectively, claiming to help users eliminate up to 99% of spam calls in typical use cases. The service also includes features that route incoming spam calls to prerecorded Answer Bots, wasting the spammer's time while keeping your line free. Learn more about this feature on Robokiller's site.
Customization: Truecaller's Approach
If you prefer more control over what gets blocked, Truecaller offers an Auto-Block feature that lets you select different levels of blocking: "Top Spammers" or "All Spammers." This means you can choose to block just the most frequent offenders or every number labeled as suspicious. This degree of customization can be beneficial if you receive legitimate calls from numbers that may occasionally be flagged as spam. You can read more on how to set this up in the Truecaller support documentation.
Practical Features of Spam Call Blockers
Most spam call blockers, including Robokiller and Truecaller, provide essential features that improve user experience:
- Database of Known Scammers: A large database allows apps to block numbers associated with spam activity.
- Call Logging: Both applications will show logs of the calls they blocked, so you can ensure no legitimate calls were missed.
- User-Friendly Setup: Set up is typically straightforward, allowing users to begin blocking unwanted calls instantly.
Alternatives in Call Blockers
While Robokiller and Truecaller are popular choices, other options like Hiya also exist. Hiya focuses on user experience and provides network-level call blocking through partnerships with carriers, however, their consumer app's pricing is less transparent, making it difficult for users to evaluate their options effectively. Moreover, Hiya's reliance on network-level blocking can result in some users reporting that important calls were inadvertently blocked, sometimes limiting control compared to app-based solutions.
What to Consider When Choosing a Spam Blocker
When choosing a spam blocking app, consider the following:
- How easy is it to set up? Look for a solution that can be installed with minimal hassle.
- What features are important to you? If you prefer auto-blocking options, Truecaller may be more suitable; for comprehensive protection against spam calls, Robokiller is advisable.
- User Feedback and Reliability: Look for reviews to gauge the effectiveness of the app you choose.
Conclusion: What We Recommend
For everyday users looking to avoid scam calls effectively, we recommend:
- Using Robokiller for its robust features and industry-leading block rate.
- Trying Truecaller if you want customizable blocking and caller identification.
- Reviewing feedback from other users to ensure the app meets your specific needs and expectations.
By adopting these strategies, you can significantly reduce unwanted calls and protect yourself from potential scams.
