Social Security scam calls are a prevalent threat, with scammers impersonating government officials to steal personal information. In 2024, losses from scam calls in the U.S. increased by 33%, totaling $16.6 billion. (techradar.com) To safeguard yourself, consider the following top-rated phone safety apps:
1. Robokiller: AI-Powered Call Blocking
Robokiller utilizes advanced AI to detect and block scam calls, including those impersonating Social Security officials. Its unique "Answer Bots" engage scammers in conversations, wasting their time and preventing them from targeting you. The app boasts a 4.5-star rating on both Google Play and the App Store. (parade.com)
2. Hiya: Comprehensive Spam Detection
Hiya offers a free version that provides incoming spam call detection, effectively analyzing billions of calls monthly. It warns users about specific area codes and prefixes commonly used by scammers. The premium version, priced at $2.99 per month, includes automatic blocking of fraud and spam calls, along with premium caller ID features. (verified.org)
3. Truecaller: Global Community Reporting
Truecaller leverages a vast global community to identify and block spam calls. It offers caller ID features, spam detection, and call recording. With over 250 million users worldwide, Truecaller has blocked 25 billion robocalls. (antivirus.com)
4. NordVPN's Spam Call Protection
NordVPN has introduced a Spam Call Protection feature for Android users in the U.S., alerting users about suspected spam calls before they answer. This tool analyzes call patterns and metadata to detect scam calls, aiming to tackle phishing and social engineering risks without compromising user privacy. (techradar.com)
5. Aura Digital Security's Call Assistant
Aura's Call Assistant app uses AI to identify and filter spam calls and text messages, effectively blocking vishing attacks. It allows users to listen to transcribed voice messages before answering unfamiliar calls, preventing missed important appointments or deliveries. (techradar.com)
6. Google and Apple Built-in Call Screening
Both Google Pixel phones and Apple iPhones now include built-in spam call detection:
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Google's Verified Calls: This feature allows businesses to verify their identity, helping users identify legitimate calls. (androidcentral.com)
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Apple's Silence Unknown Callers: This feature silences calls from unknown numbers, sending them directly to voicemail.
Conclusion
Protecting yourself from Social Security scam calls requires proactive measures. Utilizing apps like Robokiller, Hiya, Truecaller, NordVPN's Spam Call Protection, Aura's Call Assistant, and built-in features from Google and Apple can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams. Regularly updating your apps and staying informed about new scam tactics are essential steps in maintaining your personal security.
Highlights:
- Say goodbye to spam calls - NordVPN launches new spam call protection, Published on Tuesday, July 29
- I tried Aura Digital Security and here's what I found, Published on Tuesday, July 01
- Your Android phone could soon get a better way to sniff out spoofed calls, Published on Thursday, April 16
