Tech support scam calls are a pervasive issue, with Americans receiving over 50 billion robocalls in 2024 alone. (whocalledus.net) These fraudulent calls often impersonate legitimate companies, aiming to deceive individuals into providing sensitive information or making unnecessary payments. To safeguard yourself, consider the following phone safety apps:
1. RoboKiller
RoboKiller is a leading app that blocks 99% of robocalls and even engages scammers with AI-powered "Answer Bots," wasting their time and reducing their effectiveness. (geckoandfly.com) It offers a free 7-day trial, after which a subscription is required.
2. Truecaller
Truecaller identifies unknown callers and blocks spam and scam calls using a vast global database. It provides features like smart spam blocking and caller ID, displaying the names of unknown callers. (famisafe.wondershare.com) The app is free to download, with premium options available for enhanced features.
3. Hiya
Hiya offers real-time alerts for incoming spam or scam calls and can detect when scammers use numbers similar to your own. (drfone.wondershare.com) It also provides reverse phone lookup to identify unknown callers. The app is free to download, with premium options available for enhanced features.
4. Nomorobo
Nomorobo is an award-winning service that blocks robocalls and telemarketers. It offers a free version for VoIP users and a paid version for mobile phones. (whocalledus.net)
5. AT&T Call Protect
AT&T's Call Protect service displays a "V" (for verified) on your caller ID for calls considered legitimate and blocks potentially fraudulent calls by giving a busy signal. (consumerreports.org)
6. T-Mobile Scam Shield
T-Mobile offers Scam Shield, which identifies and tags suspicious calls. Customers can activate this free service by dialing #ONI# (#664#). (consumerreports.org)
7. Verizon Call Filter
Verizon's Call Filter detects spam and blocks high-risk calls. Eligible customers are automatically enrolled in the free version, with a more robust paid version available. (consumerreports.org)
8. NordVPN Spam Call Protection
NordVPN has introduced a Spam Call Protection feature that alerts users about suspected spam calls before they answer. This feature is available to Android users in the U.S. and is integrated within NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro suite. (techradar.com)
Conclusion
Protecting yourself from tech support scam calls is crucial in today's digital age. Utilizing these phone safety apps can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to such scams. While many of these apps offer free versions, some features may require a subscription. It's essential to choose an app that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
Highlights:
- Say goodbye to spam calls - NordVPN launches new spam call protection, Published on Tuesday, July 29
- Your Android phone could soon get a better way to sniff out spoofed calls, Published on Thursday, April 16
