What is the National Do Not Call Registry and how does it help block spam calls?

The National Do Not Call Registry is a free service managed by the FTC that allows consumers to opt out of receiving unsolicited marketing calls. However, it primarily stops calls from legitimate telemarketers, and scammers often ignore the list, necessitating additional measures.

How do built-in features on iPhone and Android devices help block spam calls?

iPhone users can use the 'Silence Unknown Callers' feature to send calls from unknown numbers directly to voicemail. Android users can enable spam protection in the Google Phone app to identify and block suspected spam calls automatically.

What are some effective third-party apps for blocking spam calls?

Effective third-party apps include Truecaller, which uses a vast database to identify and block spam calls; Hiya, which powers built-in spam detection on various devices; and RoboKiller, which blocks 99% of robocalls and can waste scammers' time with AI 'Answer Bots.'

How to Effectively Block Spam Calls in the U.S.

Spam calls are a pervasive nuisance in the United States, with Americans receiving over 50 billion robocalls in 2024 alone. (whocalledus.net) These unsolicited calls can range from telemarketing pitches to fraudulent schemes, making it essential to implement effective measures to protect yourself. This guide explores the best strategies and applications to help you block spam calls and safeguard your privacy.

Why Are Spam Calls So Common?

Spam calls have surged due to the low cost and ease of making automated calls. Scammers often use caller ID spoofing to make their calls appear local or from trusted entities, increasing the likelihood of individuals answering. Despite regulatory efforts, such as the TRACED Act of 2019, enforcement remains challenging, especially when dealing with international callers. (whocalledus.net)

How Can I Register for the National Do Not Call Registry?

The National Do Not Call Registry is a free service managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that allows consumers to opt out of receiving unsolicited marketing calls. To register:

Visit donotcall.gov.
Click "Register Your Phone."
Enter your phone number and email address.
Confirm your registration via the email sent to you.

Please note that this registry primarily stops calls from legitimate telemarketers. Scammers and robocallers often ignore the list, so additional measures are necessary. (whocalledus.net)

What Built-in Features Can Help Block Spam Calls?

Both iPhone and Android devices offer built-in features to help manage spam calls:

For iPhone Users:

Silence Unknown Callers:

Open Settings.
Scroll down and tap "Phone."
Toggle on "Silence Unknown Callers."

This feature silences calls from numbers not in your contacts, recent calls, or Siri suggestions, sending them directly to voicemail. (whocalledus.net)

For Android Users:

Google Phone App Spam Protection:

Open the Phone app.
Tap the three-dot menu and select "Settings."
Tap "Spam and Call Screen."
Enable "See caller & spam ID" and "Filter spam calls."

This setup allows the app to identify and block suspected spam calls automatically. (whocalledus.net)

Which Carrier Services Offer Spam Call Protection?

Major U.S. carriers provide additional tools to combat spam calls:

AT&T:
Call Protect:

Automatically blocks suspected spam calls and labels potential fraud calls with a "V" for verified. (consumerreports.org)

T-Mobile:
Scam ID and Scam Block:

Scam ID identifies and tags suspicious calls, while Scam Block prevents them from ringing through. (consumerreports.org)

Verizon:
Call Filter:

Detects and blocks spam calls, with a premium version offering more robust features. (consumerreports.org)

What Are the Best Third-Party Call Blocking Apps?

Several third-party applications offer advanced spam call blocking features:

Truecaller:

Utilizes a vast database to identify and block spam calls and messages. It also provides a reverse phone lookup feature to identify unknown callers. (fone.tips)

Hiya:

Powers built-in spam detection on devices from manufacturers like Samsung and carriers such as AT&T. It offers caller ID, spam detection, and call blocking features. (claritycheck.com)

RoboKiller:

Blocks 99% of robocalls and can even waste scammers' time with AI "Answer Bots." (whocalledus.net)

How Can I Report Spam Calls to the FTC?

Reporting spam calls helps authorities track and take action against fraudulent activities:

Visit the FTC Complaint Assistant.
Select "Phone Calls" as the complaint category.
Provide details about the call, including the number, date, and time.

Your reports contribute to efforts in reducing unwanted calls.

What Are Some Additional Tips to Stay Safe?

Be Cautious with Unknown Numbers:

Avoid answering calls from unfamiliar numbers, especially if they are international or from unfamiliar area codes.

Do Not Share Personal Information:

Never provide personal or financial information over the phone unless you are certain of the caller's identity.

Regularly Update Your Apps and Device:

Ensure your call-blocking apps and device software are up to date to benefit from the latest security features.

By implementing these strategies and utilizing available tools, you can significantly reduce the number of spam calls you receive, enhancing your privacy and peace of mind.