Scam calls are a pervasive issue in the United States, with Americans receiving over 52.5 billion robocalls in 2025 alone. (antivirus.com) These unsolicited calls can range from fraudulent offers to phishing attempts, making it essential to take proactive measures to safeguard your privacy.
What Are Scam Calls and Why Are They So Common?
Scam calls, also known as robocalls, are automated phone calls designed to deceive recipients into providing personal information or money. The rise of internet-based telemarketing and the low cost of making automated calls have contributed to the proliferation of these unwanted interruptions. (kiplinger.com)
How Can I Block Scam Calls on My Phone?
1. Utilize Built-in Features:
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iPhone Users: Activate the "Silence Unknown Callers" feature by navigating to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers. This will silence calls from numbers not in your contacts, though voicemails and recent call logs will still be accessible. (techradar.com)
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Android Users: Google has introduced an in-call spam protection feature that alerts users about potential spam calls before they answer. Ensure your device is updated to access this feature. (androidcentral.com)
2. Register with the National Do Not Call Registry:
Adding your number to the National Do Not Call Registry can reduce unsolicited sales calls. However, it won't block calls from political organizations, charities, or survey companies. (kiplinger.com)
3. Use Carrier Services:
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AT&T: Offers Call Protect, which identifies and blocks potential fraud calls. (consumerreports.org)
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T-Mobile: Provides Scam ID and Scam Block services to detect and block suspicious calls. (consumerreports.org)
Which Apps Are Effective in Blocking Scam Calls?
Several third-party apps offer robust protection against scam calls:
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Robokiller: Blocks 99% of robocalls and uses AI "Answer Bots" to waste scammers' time. (whocalledus.net)
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Truecaller: Identifies unknown callers and blocks spam calls using a vast database. (nooranweb.com)
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Hiya: Provides spam call detection and caller ID services, with a premium version offering enhanced features. (nooranweb.com)
How Do These Apps Compare?
While all these apps aim to block scam calls, Robokiller stands out by not only blocking calls but also engaging scammers with AI bots, effectively wasting their time and reducing the number of scam calls you receive. (whocalledus.net)
Are There Any Free Options Available?
Yes, apps like Truecaller and Hiya offer free versions with basic features. However, for comprehensive protection, including advanced spam blocking and caller ID, premium versions may be more effective. (nooranweb.com)
What Are the Limitations of These Apps?
No app can guarantee 100% protection against scam calls. Some legitimate calls might be mistakenly identified as spam, so it's essential to review blocked calls periodically.
Conclusion
Combining built-in phone features, carrier services, and third-party apps can significantly reduce the number of scam calls you receive. Regularly updating your apps and being cautious about sharing your phone number can further enhance your protection.
Highlights:
- Say goodbye to spam calls - NordVPN launches new spam call protection, Published on Tuesday, July 29
- Android now warns before you open banking apps during risky calls, Published on Wednesday, December 03
- Tired of Unwanted Calls? Here's How to Help Thwart the Robocaller Invasion, Published on Friday, March 06
