Unwanted calls, including spam and scam attempts, are a common nuisance. Identifying whether a caller is safe to answer can be challenging, but several strategies can help you make informed decisions.
1. Utilize Built-in Phone Features
Modern smartphones often come equipped with features to identify potential spam calls:
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Spam Risk Indicators: Many devices display alerts such as "Scam Likely" or "Spam Risk" for suspected spam calls. Trust these warnings, as they are based on databases and call patterns analyzed by your carrier. (builtin.com)
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Call Screening: iPhones with iOS 26 and later offer a feature called "Ask Reason for Calling." This prompts unknown callers to state their name and reason for calling before your phone rings, allowing you to decide whether to answer. (tomsguide.com)
2. Leverage Third-Party Applications
Several apps can assist in identifying and blocking unwanted calls:
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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. (aura.com)
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Truecaller: Offers caller ID and spam identification features, utilizing a community-sourced database to flag and block suspected spam calls. (makeuseof.com)
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Hiya: Provides spam and scam call blocking, displaying caller ID and call reason to help users decide whether to answer. (makeuseof.com)
3. Be Cautious with Unknown Numbers
When receiving calls from unfamiliar numbers:
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Do Not Share Personal Information: Legitimate organizations will never ask for sensitive information over the phone. (verizon.com)
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Check Voicemail: If the call is important, the caller will likely leave a message.
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Use Reverse Lookup Services: Websites and apps can help identify unknown numbers by providing information about the caller. (makeuseof.com)
4. Report Suspicious Calls
Reporting unwanted calls can help authorities track and prevent scams:
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Report robocalls to the FTC at donotcall.gov. (verizon.com)
Conclusion
By utilizing built-in phone features, third-party applications, and exercising caution with unknown numbers, you can effectively manage unwanted calls and protect yourself from potential scams.
Highlights:
- I haven't answered a scam call in months - this hidden iPhone feature is why, Published on Wednesday, March 18
